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2^ F 32
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=? ^
■^ , ^
THE fflSTORY OF INDIA.
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THE
HISTORY OF INDIA,
▲8 TOLD
BY ITS OWlf HISTORIANS.
THE MUHAMMADAN PERIOD.
THE POSTHUMOUS PAPEBS
or THE I.4TB
SIR H. M. ELLIOT, K.C.B.,
EDITED AND CONTINUED
BY
PROFESSOR JOHN DOWSON, M.R.A.S.,
nXTW COLUtOS, SAVDHUB0T.
VOL V.
• LONDON:
TEUBNER AND CO., 57 and 59, LUDGATE HILL.
1878.
[All rightt rntrved.']
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snPHUf AU8TIM Ain> 80X8,
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PREFACE.
In this Yolume the history of the Afghan dynasty is
completed. The reign of Humaytin is also finished,
and the annals of Akbar's reign are carried on to the
thirty-eighth year.
The Afghan Tdrikha are of no great literary yalue,
but they are the best authorities for the period of which
they treat. The first of them, the Tdrikh-i SaUtinri
Afdghana^ has never before been translated; but the
other, the Makhzan-i Afghdni or Tdrlkh-i Khdn-Jahdn
Zodi, is the book translated by Dom in his work entitled
" The History of the Afghdns:'
Some notices of the first reign of Humayun are given
by the Afghan historians, and his overthrow and ex-
pulsion are described by them from the Afghan side of
the question in this and the preceding volume. The
Humdyunrndmd of the veteran historian Khondamir
gives some curious accounts of the regulations estab-
lished by Humayun in the early part of his reign. This
is followed by a few extracts from the valuable Tdrikh4
Bashidi of Mirza Haidar, the brave and adventurous
cousin of the Emperor Babar. The work is a general
history of the Mughal Khans, and does not contain
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Tl PREFACE.
much about India ; but the Mirza was a vigorous writer,
and what he has recorded of his Indian experience
is very vivid and interesting. Some few passages have
been extiiacted from the Memoirs of Humaytin, written
by his personal attendant Jauhar, and translated into
English by Major Stewart. But the general history of
this reign has been drawn from the Tabakat-i Ahbari of
Niz&mu-d din Ahmad. Sir H. Elliot's intention has
thus been carried out ; for he had fixed upon the narra-
tive given in the Tdrikh-i Saldtin-i Afdffhana^ which
proves to have been copied verbatim from the Tabakdt.
Sir Henry. Elliot had made no provision for the im-
portant reign of Akbar, nor did he leave any notes
indicating the MSS. he intended to employ. * So it has
fallen to the Editor to select and translate some history
in illustration of this period. The rule of this work
has been to prefer original contemporary writers, or, in
the absence of actual contemporaries, those nearest in
point of time. This rule reduced the choice to two
works — the Tahakdt-i Akbari of Nizam Ahmad, and
the Aklar-nama of Abti-1 Fazl; for the Muntakhabu-t
Taw&rikh of Badd6ni is avowedly founded on the
Tahakdt^ and the Akhar-namd of Shaikh lUahdad Faizl
Sirhindi contains very little that has not been borrowed
either from the Tabakdt or the greater Akbar-ndma of
Abu-1 Fazl. The latter work is of considerable length,
and is written in a very ornate style ; so the Tabakdt
seemed best suited to the requirements of this work.
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PREFACE. TU
It has aocordingly been translated in full, and only such
passages as are trivial and irrelevant have been passed
over. The reputation of the TabafcdUi AkhaH stands
very high in India, and European writers also have
joined in its praisea As a oontemporary history, it is
certainly of very high authority, though it does not
exhibit much literary ability. The narrative is often
disjointed and fragmentary, but the language is manly
and simple, and in striking contrast to the polished
phrases of Abiik-1 Fazl. The To^akdt extends only to
the thirty-eighth year of Akbar's reign ; the history of
the latter end of the reign will be drawn from the
works of Abii-1 Fazl, Shaikh IlHhddd, and other writers,
and will appear in the next volume.
In addition to the Tabakat-i Akbari^ some extracts
have been made from the Tdrikh4 Alfi^ a general
history compiled under the direction of the Emperor
Akbar, and more copious selections have been taken
from the Muntakhahu-t Tawdrikh of 'Abdu-1 Kadir
Bada^ni. The latter writer introduces into his work
much original matter; and all that he says about
the personal aflfairs of the Emperor and his religious
opinions is of great interest. Extracts from the two
Akhar-namas relating to the earlier part of the reign
will appear in the next volume; so that although the
history of the first thirty-eight years of the reign is
comprised in the present volume, it will not be quite
complete until those passages are printed. The Ain-i
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Vlll PREFACE,
Akbari is the greatest monument of the reign of Akbar,
and a new translation by Mr. Blochmann is now in
course of publication in the Bibliotheca Indica, enriched
with copious notes. That work supplies many of the
deficiencies of the historians, and Mr. Blochmann's
labours have happily made it quite unnecessary to do
more here with \bB Ain-i Akbari than to refer to his
yaluable production.
The notes in the Aj^ndix are entirely the work of
Sir H. Elliot, and are printed exactly as he left them.
The following is a list of the articles in this volume
with the names of the respective writers : —
XXXIV.— Tarikh-i Salatin-i Afaghana—" Ensign '* C. P. Mac-
kenzie, and a little by Sir H. M. Elliot
XXXV.— Tarikh-i Khan-Jahan Lodl— "Ensign" C. F. Mac-
kenzie and Sir H. M. Elliot
XXXVL— Humayun-nama— Sir H. M. Elliot's mwMhi.
XXXVn.— Tarikh-i Rashidi— Editor.
XXXVm.— Tazkiratu-1 Waki'at— Major Stewart.
XXXIX.— Tarikh-i Alfi— Sir H. M. Elliot and the Editor.
XL.— Tabakat-i Akbari— Editor.
XU.— Tarikh-i Badauni— Sir H. M. Elliot and the Editor.
Appendix,— The whole by Sir H. M. Elliot
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CONTENTS OF VOL. V.
PAGK
XKXIV.—Tdrikh't8aldHn4Afdghana,o{AhmsAYkdgiT - 1
'XXKV.—Mahhzan'iAfghdni and Tdrikh-i Khdn^ahdn Lodi,
of Ni'amatu-lla 67
XXXYL — Humdy^n-ndma, of Ehondamir 116
XKKYJJ^—TdHJch'i Baahidi, of Haidar Mirz& Doghlat - - 127
XXKYm.—TazhiraithlWdkrdt,o{Je^uhax 136
IIXSIX.— Tdrikh-i Alfi, of Manlana Ahmad and others - - 160
XL.— 7a2»a]bi^»ilJb&aW,ofNiz4ma-ddinAhmad,6akh8hi 177
:KIA.—MwUahhabU't Tawdrikh; or, Tdrikh4 Badd&ni, of
MuUa 'Abdu-1 K&dir Badauni 477
APPENDIX.
A. — On the Capture of Nasibin by means of Scorpions - - - 550
B.--On Knsddr 567
C. — On Fire-worship in Upper India 569
D. — On the Knowledge of Sanskrit by Muhammadans - - - 570
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CORRIGENDUM.
Vol. v. p. 116, lines 4 and 6, dele the wonb '* in all probability."
ADDENDUM.
Yol. IT. p. 289. ** Shaikh Zain was one of the most learned men of the time, and
translated in an elegant style the memoirs written by the late Emperor B&bar.*' —
Bad&tinl, Text, vol. i. p. 341.
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HISTORIAIfS OF ITOIA.
XXXIV.
TARtKK'I SALATtN-I AFAGHANA,
OF
AHMAD YKDGtXR.
[Ahmad Yadoar, the author of this work, describes himself
in his Preface as an old servant of the 8&r kings, and says that
D&dd Sh&h gave him orders to write a History of the Afghan
Sult&ns, and thus do the same for them as the Tabakdt-i Ndairi
and Zi&-i Bami had done for the kings of their times. The
book commences with the reign of Bahlol LodI, and the last
chapter narrates the defeat, capture, and execution of Himd.
The author mentions incidentally that his father was tcazir to
Mirza ^Askari, when the latter was in command of Hum&ydn's
adranced guard in his campaign in 6ujar&t ; and he also several
times names the Tdrikh-i Nizdmi and the McCdanU'l Akhbdr'i
Ahmadi as the works from which he copied.^
The date of the composition of this work has not been ascer-
tained, but as it was written by command of D&ud Sh&h, who
died in 984 h., and as it quotes from the TdHkh-i Nizdmi
(Tahakdi'i AkbaH), which was written seventeen or eighteen
^ [I am indebted for these partieiilan to Mr. Blochmann, who has kindly supplied
them from the MS. in the Library of the Asiatio Society of Bengal.— £i>.]
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2 AHMAD YADGAE.
years afterwards in 1001-2 H., the probability is, that it was
completed soon after the latter date and before the Makkzan-i
Afghdniy which was written in 1020 H, Like the other Afgh&n
historians, Ahmad Y&dg&r shows a great liking for marvellous
and ridiculous stories, but pays little regard to dates. He gives
but very few, and he is incorrect in that of so well-recorded an
event as the death of Hum&ytin. The deficiency of dates may,
however, be the fitult of the copyist, as blanks are left in the
MS. for dates and headings. Sir H. Elliot found the work to
" differ much from Ni^amatu-Ua,*' but to " give the idea of being
subsequent to the Tdrikh-i Dditdi.** Still, though it " generally
follows the Tdrikh'i DdUdi closely," there are occasionally "great
differences; details being omitted, and novelties introduced."
The history of the reign' of Hum&yun is copied verbatim
from the Tabakdt-i Akhari; only one short variation has been
discovered.
The MS. in the Library of the Asiatic Society of Bengal
contains 224 pages, of 11 lines to the page.
By far the greater part of the following Extracts were trans-
lated by '^ Ensign " 0. F. Mackenzie, but a few, noted where they
occur, are from the pen of Sir H. EUiot.]
EXTEACTS.
*******
The siege of Dehli by Mahmiid Shdh Sharki}
Mahmtid Sharki was instigated to attack Sult4n Bahlol by
his wife, who was the daughter of Sultdn 'A14u-d din. She
represented to her husband that the kingdom of Dehli had
belonged to her &ther and grandfather, and who was BahloU
that he should usurp their dominion P If her husband would
not advance, she herself would bind on her quiver, and oppose
his pretensions.
Being galled by these taunts, Sult&u Mahmud came to Dehli
in the year 856 H. (1452 a.d.), with a powerful army, and 1000
1 [Translated by Sir H. EUiot.]
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TAEIKH-I SALATIK-I APAGHANA. 3
mountain-like elephants. At that time, Salt&n Bahlol was near
Siihind, but Khw&ja B&jazid, and Sh&h Sikandar Sarw&ni, and
Bibi Matu, the wife of Isl&m Kh&n, with all the Afgh&n families,
had taken refuge at Dehli. There being bat few men, Bibi
Matu dressed the women in male clothes, and placed them on
the battlements to make a show of numbers. One day, Sh&h
Sikandar Sarw&ni was seated on the wall, when one of Sult&n
Mahmud's water-carriers was taking away some water from a
wdl nader the bastion. Sh&h Sikandar drew his bow, and sent
an arrow ^ right through the bullock that was carrying the water-
bags, and from that time no one dare come near the fort.
But as Sult&n Bahlol delayed to relieve the garrison, they began
to despair of succour ; and as the enemy advanced their redoubts
and trenches, and discharged their sheUs with such precision
that no one could venture out of his house, they were reduced to
propose terms of surrender, offering to give up the keys of the
fort to any of Mahmdd's officers, on condition of their being
allowed to leave the fort unmolested. Accordingly, Saiyid
Shamsu-d din took the keys to Daryd 'Kh&a Lodi, who had
invested the fort, and asked to say a few words to him first in
private. When Dary& Kh&n had sent away his attendants,
the Saiyid inquired, ^' What is your relationship to Sult&n
Mahmud P*' Daryd Kh&n replied, " There is no relationship.
I am his servant." The Saiyid then asked, ^^ How are you
related to Sult&n Bahlol?" Daryd Eh&n replied, '' I am a Lodi,
and he also is a Lodi.**' The Saiyid then placed the keys of the
fort before him, saying, "Have regard to the honour of your
mother and sister (who are now in the fort), and save the ladies
from disgrace." Dary& Eh&n said, " What can I do P Actuated
by fraternal motives, I have intentionally delayed capturing the
1 The TdHkh^ Dd&di sajB it was eleyen palms long, and the distance to which it
reached was 800 feet ; and that though it penetrated the water-bags as well as the
hullock, jet the entire arrow was buried on the other side in the earth.
s The Tdrikh-i DdM is fuller :—*' We are brothers: he is a Lodi, and I am a
Lodi ; his mother is my mother, and his sbter is mj sister.*' This explains the
allusion to " mother and sister " which occurs below.
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4 AHMAD YABGAR.
fort, but SqU&ii Bahlol delays to make his appearance. For
the present do you retain the keys, and wait to see what I shall
be able to effect in your behalf."
Dary& Kh&n then went to Solt&n Mahmud, and explained to
him about the surrender of the keys and their restoration, ob-
serving that Bahlol, according to common report, was advancing
with a large army, and that it would be better first to pay
attention to him ; for should he be conquered, DehU would of
itself &11 into their hands. The Sult&n inquired what had
better be done under the circumstances. Daryi Eh&n suggested
that he and Fath Eh&n should be despatched against Bahlol, so
as to prevent his passing P&n{pat. This counsel being approved
of, they were sent with 30,000 horse and forty war elephants
against Bahlol, who by this time had advanced as far as Narela.
Mahmud's army encamped two ko9 on the side of Narela, and
on the very night of their arrival the enemy twice carried off
their bullocks, camels, and horses. Next day, both armies were
drawn up in battle array. The army of Bahlol amounted to
14,000 cavalry.
*♦««***
Suttdn BahloVs expedition against the Mdnd, and against Ahmad
Khdn Bhatti}
Some time after, Sult&n Bahlol marched out against the
£&n&, and pitched his camp at Ajmir, where he collected a
powerful force.' Ghattar S&l, son of the B&n&'s sister, was at
Udipur with 10,000 cavalry. Kutb Khdn advanced towards
that place, and fought an action with the rascally infidel. At
first, the Sult&n^s army was repulsed by the impetuous onset of
1 [Translated by Sir H. EUiot]
' This transaction is not mentioned by any other historian, nor do we find it in the
Bfijptit Annals. One engagement between the Imperialists and Mew&ils is recorded
in the time of R&i Mai, who ascended the gaddi in a.d. 1474, but the particnlars differ
in every respect. We are also told in general terms, that Mew&r had to contest her
northern boundary with the dynasty of Lod£.— Tod, AsmaU of Mqfoithan, toL i.,
p. 292.
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TAETKH-I SALATrN-I APAGHANA. g
the infideld, and seyeral Afgh&ns obtained martyrdom in that
contest ; but, in the end, Eutb Kh^ and Kh&n-kh&n&n FarrauH,
determining to sell their lives dearly, advanced to close combat
with swords and daggers, and so completely routed their black-
fiiced foes, that Ohattar S&l was slain in the fidd ; and so many
infidels fell, that a pillar was raised of their heads, and streams
of their blood began to flow. Five or six elephants, forty horses,
and much plunder fell into the hands oi the Sult&n's soldiers,
while those of the Bdnd took to flight. Subsequently, the E&n&
made peace, and in l/dlpdr prayers were offered and the coin
was struck in the name of the Sult&n.
After that, the Sult&n carried his victorious army into Mdn-
khir.^ He plundered and depopulated that entire country, and
the army acquired great booty. Thence he returned to Sirhind,
and after two or three months, advanced with his troops towards
Lahore, where he passed some days in festivities.
At that time, Ahmad Kh&n Bhatti,' who had acquired great
power in the country of Sind, and had 20,000 cavalry under him,
had revolted against the Governor of Mult&n ; whose petition
arrived^ representing that Ahmad Kh&n was plundering the
villages of Multin, and that if the Lord of the World would
not come to the rescue, he himself would not be able to hold .his
own in Mult&n ; and that after the loss of Mult&n, the Panj&b
would be exposed to ravage. The Sult&n, vexed at this intelli-
gence, appointed 'Umar Kh&n, one of his chief nobles, and
Prince B&yazid, to command an expedition against Ahmad Eh&n,
at the head of 30,000 valiant horsemen. After taking leave of
the Sult&n in all honour, they moved by continued marches from
Lahore till they reached Mult&n, where they were joined by
the Governor, who acted as their guide till they reached the
enemy's country.
Ahmad Eh&n, proud in the strength and courage of his
^ One of the anecdotes related bj this author mentioiu the entire destraction of
M6nkh&r, and the deportation of its inhabitants. The Tdrlkh-i DdUdi g^ves the
same facts, bat speaks only of *' a Tillage in i\i% pargana of M6nkh&r." — ^MS., p. 34.
* These transactions with Ahmad Kh&n are not related by any other historian.
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6 AHMAD TADGAB.
army, disregarded the Imperialists, and, not thinking it worth his
while to move, sent his nephew, at the head of 15,000 cavalry,
to oppose them. That youth was desperately enamoured of a
strumpet, who was indeed surpassingly beautiful, and he never
moved out on any excursion of pleasure or hunting without
being accompanied by her ; and, even on the day of battle, he
seated her in an *amdri, mounted on an elephant, and carried her
with him. Naurang Elh&n, for that was his name, detached
D&ud Kh&n with 10,000 cavalry against the Imperialists, and
the two parties charged each other with such impetuosity that
rivers of blood began to flow. In the end, D&ud Kh&n was
slain, and his troops defeated. When those who had fled from
the field informed Naurang Khfin of the disaster, he took leave
in sorrow of his mistress, and arrived on the field of battle,
where he displayed such valour and desperation that he clove
several men of the Sult&n^s army in twain, and felled them firom
their horses. At last, a ball from a camel-gun cut him also in
half, and killed him.
When the news of Naurang Kh&n's &te reached his mistress,
she, being endowed with a masculine mind, put on a suit of
armour, bound round her waist a gilt quiver, and placing a
helmet on her head, joined the army of Naurang Kh&n. Upon
consultation with his brother, she recommended that he should
send all the troops to pay their respects to her, and should give
out that the prince, the son of Ahmad Eh&n, had arrived, in
order that the enemy might be distracted, and not entertain the
persuasion that they had really killed the commander of their
enemy^s troops. Accordingly, all the cavalry dismounted, and
made their obeisances, while the kettle-drums resounded with
loud notes of joy. The Imperialists, notwithstanding their
victory, were perplexed, and in the midst of their doubts, were
suddenly attacked so iuriously by Ahmad Kh&n's army, that
they were put to flight. Ahmad Khan, when he heard of the
victory of his army and the salutary aid afforded by that woman,
was astounded with joy ; and when he saw her arrive, decked in
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TAEfKH-I SALATtN-I APAGHANA, 7
martial array, he praised her yaloor and conduct, and bestowed
jewels upon her to the valne of 10,000 rupees.
On the other hand, Prince Bayazfd, after punishing the men
who fled from the field of battle, sent for another army, and two
or three great nobles were despatched to his assistance with large
reinforcements. When these had all joined, they made an inroad
upon Ahmad Eh&n's territory, and he, after many battles, was
at last taken prisoner and put to death, while his country was
sequestered and included in the Imperial domain. B&yazid
returned yictorious to the court of Sult&n Bahlol, by whom he
was received with royal benignity.
The reign of Sultdn IbrdMm LodL
Some historians relate that when Sikandar died, he left two
sons by one wife : the first, Snlt&n Ibr&him ; the second, Jal&l
Eh&n. When Ibr&him grew up, and became celebrated for his
personal beauty and excellent disposition, the nobles determined
to place him on the throne, to which they accordingly raised him
on Thursday, the 7th of Zi-l hijja, a.h. 923 ^ (Nov. 1617). On
that day, all thosef who were attached to the royal person prepared
the tents, embroidered with gold and adorned with jewels, and
.spread carpets of various colours, worked with gold thread. They
placed the throne of Sikandar, covered with gems of price and
jewels of great value, on a coloured carpet. The tributary kings
and nobles wore beautiful dresses and embroidered garments, and
resembled the flowers blooming in a garden. The horses and
elephants were decked with the most magnificent trappings. So
splendid a coronation had never been witnessed, and the people
consequently long remembered the day on which this fortunate
and youthful monarch obtained the crown.
The nobles and pillars of the State then gave Ibr&him's
1 The Makhimt^ A/if hdnimdiTdrikh'iKhdn-JahdnLodiaa.ji]ie Sth of Zi-lka'da,
which is doubtten correct, for our author concurs with the other historians in repre-
senting that his predeeessor died on the 7th of Zi-l ka*da.
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g AHMAD YADGAR.
brother by the same mother, the title of Sult&n Jal&lu-d din
(he had been previously called Jaldl Eh&n), and seat him with
many officers and a large army to take charge of the kingdom
of Jaunptir. Four months afterwards, ^Azam Ham&yun Lodi ^
and the Kh&n-kh&n&n Farmuli came from their estates to
congratulate the King, and took that opportunity of accusing
the nobles attending on His Majesty, saying, that it was a great
error for two persons to share a kingdom, and that two sovereigns
could never rule together. As the poet says :
*' One body cannot cover two souls,
Nor one kingdom own two monarohs."
Accordingly, Sult&n Ibr&him cast the agreement which he had
made with his brother into the recess of oblivion ; and after
taking advice, came to the conclusion that as the Sh&hz&da was
not thoroughly established, and had not as yet arrived at the
seat of his government, it would be best to vmte and tell him
that the Sult&n required his presence to aid him in transacting
certain momentous affairs ; that he should come unattended ; and
that after they had consulted together, he might return to the
seat of his government,*
Haibat Kh&n, the wolf-slayer, who was noted for his extreme
cunning, was despatched on this errand, and directed to cajole
the Sh&hz&da to return with him. It is said, that walls have
ears, and an account of this arrangement had, before this, come
to the ears of Jal&lu-d din, so that he was not entrapped by the
flattering speeches and attempts at deception which Haibat Kh&n
used profusely, and therefore he would not consent to come.
^ There was also an 'Azam Hum&ytin Sarw&ni, whom we shall find afterwards men-
tioned under this reign. It was a title, not a name ; and we find B&bar thus speaking
of it: <*One of these titles in Hinddst&n is *'Azam Hnm&ytfn,' another is 'Kh&u
Jah&n/ another < Eh&n-kh&n&n/ The title of Fath Eh&n's father was <'Azam
Ham&y6n.' As I saw no propriety in any one's bearing this title except Hnm&ydn
himself, I abolished it, and bestowed that of < £h&n Jah&n ' on Fath Eh&n Sarw6ni."
— Memoir8j p. 844.
' The Tdrikh»i Khdn-Jahdn adds, that the nobles were determined to keep np
this agitation for their own sakes, *'as they neyer considered it oonyenient that publio
affairs should be under the restraint of one absolute monarch."
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TARrXH-I SALATIN-I AFAGHANA. 9
Haibat Elh&n reported his unsuccessftil mission, and the King
then sent divers other courtiers ; these were also unsuccessful, as
the Sh&hz&da steadily refused to go with them.^ After this, the
Sultdn wrote /artndns containing expressions of kindness and
goodwill to all the nobles Skudjdgirddra of the sdba of Jaunp6r,
and promised them munificent rewards if they would forsake
their allegiance to Jal&l Eh&n, and refuse to treat him as their
ruler. He sent secretly a confidential servant to certain of the
nobles, bearing dresses of honour, horses, etc., and commanded
them, on the receipt of this farmdn^ to renounce allegiance to
Jal&l Eh&n.
As it was decreed by &te, that Jal&la-d dm should not reign,
many of the grandees deserted him, and became his enemies. At
this period Sh&hz&da Jal&l Eh&n, having set up a jewelled throne,
and covered the doors and walls of his palace with brocade, sat
there in state on the 15th of Zi-1 hijja, 923 a.h. (Dec. 1517). He
gave audience to the servants of the State, the courtiers and the
soldiers, to all of whom he presented dresses of honour, swords,
^ These Gircmnstanoes will be found differently related by Firishta. See Briggs,
Tol. L, p. 690. Sikandar Lodi dying at Agra, his son Ibr&hlm succeeded to the
throne. At a yery early period, contrary to the custom of his father and grand*
Iklher, he made no distinction among his officers, whether of his own tribe or other-
wise, and said publicly, that Irings should hare no relations or clansmen, but that aU
should be considered as subjects and serrants of the State ; and the Afgh&n chiefs,
who had hitherto been allowed to sit in the presence, were constrained to stand in front
of the throne, with their hands crossed before them. Shortly after his accession a
conspiracy was formed by the Lodf chiefe, by whom it was agreed to leaye Ibr&hlm
in quiet possession of Dehll and a few dependent provinces, and to raise the Prince
Jal&l Kh&n, his brother, to the throne at Jaunptir. The Prince, accordingly, march-
ing from K&lpl in conjunction with the disaffected chieft, ascended the throne of
Jaunp6r. He appointed his cousin, Fath Eh&n, his wagir, who gained oyer all the
officers of the eastern proYinces to his interest Kh&n Jah&n Loh&nT was at this
time proceeding from Baprl to congratulate Ibr&him on his accession ; when, falling
in with the disaffected nobles, he blamed them severely for causing divisions in the
kingdom, which, he said, would be attended with fatal consequences to the family of
Lodi. The chiefs, admitting the impropriety of their conduct, determined, as the
Prince Jal&l Kh6n could not be yet well established, to divest him of his newly-
assumed dignity ; and accordingly they sent Haibat £h6n Jalw&nf, with letters, to recsdl
him before he reached JaonptSr. Haibat Eh&n, however, having overacted his part,
the Prince Jal&l Khftn suspected some plot, and excused himself from coming. The
ehieft, unaware tiiat he suspected thom, deputed Shaikh Muhammad Farmull and
odiera to enforce their request ; but the Prince proceeded to Jaunpfir.
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10 AHMAD YADGAE.
girdles, daggers, horses, elephants, titles, and honours, according
to their respective ranks. Having thus gained the good opinion
of the people, he opened the gates of charity to the poor and
needy, and increased their allowances; and having thus established
his authority, he ceased to obey Sult&n Ibr&him, and caused the
khutba to be read and coin to be struck in his own name.
When he felt himself sufficiently powerful, he sent confidential
agents to 'Azam Hum&ylin, who was at that time besieging
the fort of E&linjar,^ and wrote to him, saying, ''You are
in the place of my father and uncle, and are well aware that
the compact has not been broken by me. Sult&n Ibr&him,
of his own accord, gave me a portion of the inheritance
which our &ther left, because I was his own brother, the son
of the same mother. He has broken the phial of the con-
nexion which we derived from our parent's womb with the
stone of unkindness. You ought to protect and help me because
I am oppressed.**^ Previous to this ^Azam Hum&yun had been
ill-disposed towards Sult&n Ibr&him. He was moved by the
supplications of Jal&l Eh&n, and raised the siege of the fort.
He entered into a treaty and compact with Jal&lu-d din, and
told him that he ought first to obtain possession of Jaunpdr, and
then see what was best to be done. He then advanced towards
Oudh by an uninterrupted succession of marches. The governor
of that place, finding himself unable to contend with him, fled
towards Karra, and sent information of what was passing to
Sult&n Ibrahim, who wished to start immediately with some
picked men for the purpose of repressing the disturbance. By
the advice of certain of the nobles, he confined four of his
brothers in the fort of Hansi, and entrusted them to the charge
of Muhammad Kh&n with 500 horse. He, moreover, summoned
1 So says the Tdrihh^ Lditdl (MS. p. 144) ; but the Makhum-i Afghdni (MS. p.
126) and the Tirikh-i Khdn-Jahdn Lodi (MS. p. 140) say <<Gwftli&r." Bom (p. 71)
erroneously translateB ** held the fort of Gualyar," instead of ** besieged." The two
last authorities also mention that Jalidu-d din was advancing in foroe against 'Ajtam
Hum&yiin, when he sent his conciliatory message ; that he despised the mere kingdom
of Jaunpfir; and, aspiring to a higher dominion, had proclaimed himself at K6lpi as
he rival of hisbrotheri and the claimant of the whole empire.
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TAETKH-I SALATrN-I AFAGHANA. 11
all the nobles into hia private apartment, and gained them to bis
side bj making them presents in gold, and giving them titles
and dignities; after which he ordered the bakhshia to issue
arrears of pay to the army, and give them one month^s gratuity.
On Thursday, the 24th of Zf-1 hijja, he proceeded in the direc-
tion of Jaunp6r by nninterrupted marches, and on arrival at
Bhuig&nw received intelligence that 'Azam Hum&ynn and his
son Fath Kh&n had forsaken Sult£n Jal&lu-d din, and were
on their way to pay their respects. The Sult&n was delighted
at this news, and caused his army to halt, in order that
he might make due preparations for their reception. On the
day fixed for ^Azam Hum&yun's coming, Ibr&him sent a large
concourse of his principal chieftains to meet him ; and when he
made his obeisance, his head was exalted by the many marks
which he received of the royal fevour. The Sult4n also pre-
sented khiVaU of cloth of gold, girdles, jewelled daggers, and
some of his most valuable elephants to 'Azam Hum&yiln, whom
he rendered grateful by these attentions. Meanwhile he ap-
pointed some of the principal nobles to conduct the war against
Jal&lu-d din, and furnished them with a large army, war
elephants, and all other needful equipments. Jal&lu-d din had
marched towards Agra with a large army, consisting of 30,000
horsemen, besides many elephants ; leaving some of his partisans
in E&lp{, to which place Sult&n Ibr&him laid siege, and took it
after a short resistance, and gave it over to plunder.^ After this,
when he heard that his brother had gone towards Agra with a
strong force, he sent Malik Adam Ghakkar ^ to protect that place,
which he ae<K)rdingly reached with all expedition. Jal&lu-d din
wished to treat Agra as the Sult&n had done E&Ipi ; but Malik
Adam contrived to deceive and amuse him until he had sent
for further assistance, and given Sult&n Ibr&him notice of
what was passing. The Sult&n despatched 18,000 horsemen and
50 elephants to the assistance of the Malik, whose heart was so
1 See the Extracts f^m tlie Tdrikh^i Khdn-Jahdn Lodi.
» [Here written "Kfekar." See Vol. IV., p. 493 ]
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12 AHMAD TADGAE.
strengthened that, he sent to Jalalu-d din, to say, that if hd
woald relinquish all claim to the empire, and would put aside
the umbrella, the djtdbgir, the naubaty the kettle-drum, and other
insignia of royalty, and would promise to conduct himself as
one of the umard^ he (Malik Adam) would use his interest
in his behalf, and would obtain for him the aiiba of K&IpI on
the same terms as he formerly held it.
Sultdn Jal&lu-d din, led by his evil destiny, which had unfitted
him for the charge of a kingdom, although he possessed 30,000
brave horsemen and 160 war elephants, acted like a coward, and
agreed to these conditions. All his chiefs said to him, ^* Why
are you so weak-hearted P The Sult&n will on no account suffer
you to live. We have eaten your salt for ten years; be firm
and resolute, and give your &ithful servants an opportunity of
showing their devotedness to you. God is the Supreme Disposer
of all things. The Sult&n is of a bad disposition. In the end
the nobles and troops will side with you.^' Notwithstanding
their advice, as Providence had decreed his ruin, Jal&lu-d din
was satisfied with the terms, and left off using the insignia of
royalty. He sent Malik Adam Ghakkar to the King, to beg him
to grant him other jdgirs; but the Sult&n (who was then at
Et&wa) would not agree to do so, and sought means to get rid
of him. When Jal&lu-d din heard of his intentions, he took
refuge with the B&j& of Gw&lior, and his old soldiers dispersed^
Sult&n Ibr&him took up his abode at Agra, and many nobles
who had been hostile to him came and tendered their submission.
Karimd&d Kh&n T&gh, with others of the umardy were sent
to take charge of Dehli. Meanwhile, the army of the Sult&n
besieged Gw&lior, and ^Azam Hum&ydn was sent to take the
command. Sult&n Jal&lu-d din accordingly left that place,
and retired to M&lwd; where, not being well received by the
Sult&n Mahmdd, he fled to Garra-Kantak, where he fell into
the hands of the Gonds, who seized him, and with a view to
gain the good- will of the Sult&n, sent their captive to him.
The Sult&n rejoiced at this intelligence, and caused all his
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TARrXH-I SALAXrN.I AFAGHANA. 13
court to assemble. Salt&n Jal&Iu-d din was brought hand-bound
into this assembly, after which he was sent to the fort of H&nsi.
Whilst he was en route to that place, Ahmad Kh&n was sent
after him, and administered the draught of martyrdom.
After these eyents, the Sult&n ruled the country without fear,
and without admitting a partner to share his empire. The
Biji of Gwfilior, who had been his enemy for years, having
departed to the infernal regions,^ was succeeded by his son,
Bikram&jit, The Sult&n, after a long war, wrested the fort
from him ; and taking down the copper bull,' out of whose
mouth a voice issued, from its place over the gate, brought it
to the fort of Agra, where it remained until the time of the
Emperor Akbar, who caused it to be melted down for the pur-
pose of making cannon.
When the Sult&n had conquered Gw&lior,' he went to Dehli,
and waxed very proud, so that he began to maltreat and punish
the nobles of his fitther, many of whom held him in great awe.
He imprisoned some of them, and throwing Mi&n Bhua into
chains, who had been the most powerful and independent grandee
^ This mode of ezprenion, howerer oommon, Boonds more than usually migraciouB
and intolerant in this particular instance, as the Makhzan-i Afghdni (MS., p. 130),
and Tdrikk-i Khdn^ahdn Zodi (MS., p. 144), represent B&j& M&n as only ex-
temaUy a Hind(i, and in heart inclined towards Isl&m.
* AU the other authorities represent that it was a hrazen hull, and though they
pronounce it to have heen worshipped hy the Hindds, mention nothing ahout the
Toioe. They say also that it was transferred to the Baghd&d gate of Dehli, where
Nufimu-d d(n Ahmad tells us he himself saw it in Akhar's time. *Abdu-l K&dir,
howerer, says that it was remored from Dehlf to Fathp<)r, where he saw it. — See
Extracts from the TdHkh-i Baddimi, We can perhaps reconcile this hy the
Tdrikh-i Khdn-Jahdn Zodi, whose author (MS., p. 144) says he saw it at DehU
hefore 099, when it was melted down for bell-metal. It was taken from an out-
work of Gw&lior, constructed by R&j& M&n, called B&dalgarh, which exists to the
present day under the same name. According to the TdrikK^i Ddudi (MS., p. 160),
fifcdalgarh was captured by the application of gunpowder, similar to the mode in
which we took GhaznL
> This boasted capture of Gw&lior appears to haye extended to nothing more than
its lower outwork, B&dalgarh ; but Firishta adds : ^ The King now receiving advices of
the reduction of Gw&lior, which had been for a hundred years in the hands of the
Hindiis, he had Idsure to turn his thoughts to the insurrection at Earra. *Azam
Hum&y6n and Sa'id Eh&n, after the fiiU of Gw&lior, were permitted to go to their
Jdgin, from whence, uniting with Isl&m £h&n, they added strength to his power." —
BriggB, ToL L, p. 695.
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14 AHMAD TADGAB.
of the empire, and the absolute minister of Sult&n Sikandar, his
&ther, during a period of twenty-eight years, gave him over to
the charge of Malik Adam Gbakkar.^ Certain nobles, who were
envious of the Mi&n, counselled the King to erect a building
with a subterranean chamber beneath it. When two months had
elapsed, and the chamber was thoroughly dry, they filled it with
bags of gunpowder. They then procured the release of Mi&n
Bhtia and certain other nobles against whom they were plotting,
gave them dresses of honour, and money, and treated them with
such kindness that they banished all apprehension from their
minds. One day the King said to them, ^' IsUm Eh&n was raised
from the dust, and kindly treated by Sult&n Sikandar ; but he
has since become apprehensive, and has rebelled and proclaimed
open enmity. I pray you now to retire to the new house which
I have built, sit there and deliberate amongst yourselves what
course I ought to follow. I have such confidence in you that I
am certain the conclusion you come to will be of benefit to me.''
They went unsuspiciously to the place, and commenced their
consultation. Suddenly the whole place was blown up, and
Mi&n Bhtia and all who were there present were scattered as
leaves of trees by a gale of wind.*
Many nobles became aware of the Ejng's fickle disposition,
and raised the standard of opposition. Isl&m Kh&n^ threw off
^ The reason of this estrangement and degradation is said in the Tdrtkh-i Khdn-
Jahdn Lodi (MS., p. 142), to have been, that the accession of old age, and consequent
infirmity of Umbs and sight, rendered him unfit for the daties of his judicial office ;
besides which he showed an indifference about pleasing the Sult&n, — ample grounds,
with such a tyrant, for imprisonment and assassination. — Dieax idem, et Tiberium
aeerbis facetiU irridere tolitut^ quarun apud prapotentes in Ionium memoria est, —
Tacitus, Ann. v. 2. In these better times, the first offence is visited with a handsome
pension, and the second with exclusion from a crowded ball or dull dinner-party.
' This barbarous gunpowder plot is not mentioned by the other historians; but they
mention that the Ml&n was imprisoned and deprived of his offices and estates, which
were, nevertheless, bestowed upon his son, and that, in the end, he was privately
assassinated or poisoned along with some other nobles. The Tdrikh-i Ddudi, which
is generally in accordance with our author, contradicts itself; in one place remarking
that he died in prison (MS., p. 151) in another, that he was murdered (p. 171).
* The I^rikh'i Ldkdl (MS., p. 152), says that he possessed himself of his father
'Azam Hum&ydn*s army and camp-equipage. The Tdrikh-i Khdn^Jahdn Zodi adda
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TAEfKH-I SALATIN-I APAGHANA. 15
the mask of obedience in ^ra, and began to assemble an army.
When the Sult&n heard this, he wished to send troops against
him ; bat, saddenly, several grandees left Dehli, and went over
to Islim E3i&n, and the insurrection was thus rendered more
formidable. The Sult&n appointed others of the umardy who
proceeded towards Lucknow, near which place they were at-
tacked by Ikbfil Kh&n, of the tribe of 'Azam Hum&ytin, with
5000 horsemen.^ Many men were slain, and the Kings's army
defeated.
When this news reached him, he despatched another army,
and directed that the insurgent nobles should first be subdued,
and that afterwards steps should be taken to overcome Ikb&l
Eh&n. The army of Isl&m Kh&n amounted to nearly 40,000
horsemen,' ready for action. Shaikh B&jd tried to induce the
rebels to submit. They replied that they would do so if 'Azam
Hum&ydn were released from prison. The Sult&n, on a reference
made to him^ would not consent to this,' and when all was ready
for war such fighting took place as had never been witnessed.
Three or four thousand soldiers fell on both sides,^ and streams
of blood flowed. At last, a soldier of the Sult&n's, who was an
inhabitant of K&bul, facing Isl&m Kh&n, discharged his match-
(MS., p. 146), that he vas jdgirddr of Karra Maoikpiir, and that when he heard of
hif father's imprisonment, he not only seized all his property, hut defeated Ahmad
Kh&n, who had been sent to supersede him.
^ From an ambuscade, say all the other historians. This occurred at B&ngarmau,
near Eanaaj.
> This is doubtless an error. The Tdrikh-i Ddudi (MS., p. 153) says 40,000
honemen and 500 elephants, and so does the Makhxan-i Afghdni (MS., p. 133) ; but
Dom, in hii translation (p. 75), has the same reading as Ahmad Y&dg&r. The
two latter represent the Sultin's horse as numbering 50,000.
s The Tdrikh'i Dditdi (MS., p. 153) says he summoned the royal army from the
Ma of Bih&r, and that the action took place after their junction. This is confirmed
by Ni£&mn*d din Ahmad. The rebels must have been guilty of extraordinary supine*
neis to have admitted this.
* The Makksan-i Afghdni (MS., p. 135) says, **¥ot many years such a san-
gninary action had not occurred in Hinddst&n, and old men used to say that no such
fight had taken place in their time. Brother against brother, and father against
son, urged by mutual rivalry and inborn bravery, mixed in the conflict ; and restrain-
ing their hands from long arrow and spear, they contended only with dagger, sword,
and knife. In that battle 10,000 gallant Afgh&ns fell on both sides."
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16 AHMAD YADGAB.
lock at him, and struck him in the forehead, when he fell to the
earth. This caused the rebels to disperse, and the King's army,
taking advantage of the panic, attacked them. Thus the only
reward which Isl&m fih&n met with for his rebellion and in-
gratitude was death, while Sa^fd Kh&n and others were made
prisoners. The rebel forces were utterly routed, and the insur-
rection suppressed. When the King learnt this, he was much
pleased, and behaved towards the army, which had fought so well
and loyally for him, with the greatest kindness ; but he did not
forget the malice of the nobles.
At this period an army was prepared for the purpose of at-
tacking B&n& Sankd.^ Mf&n Husain Kh&n Zarbakhsh, Mi&n
Kh&n-kh&n&n Farmuli, and Mi&n MaVuf,' who were the chief
commanders in the army of Sult&n Sikandar, and whom he had
distinguished beyond all others by associating ¥ri[th them, and
increasing their rank and preferments, — who were the bravest mdn
of the age, and could have instructed even Bustam in the art of
war, — and who during the reign of the deceased Sult&n had
fought many battles and taken many castles ; — these generals
the Sult&n placed under Mi&n M&khan, the commander-in-chief
of this expedition.' When they arrived in the R&na's country,
the Sult&n wrote, ordering Mi&n M&khan to seize Mi&n Husain
Kh&n and Mi&n Ma'ruf Kh&n in the best way he could, and
send them prisoners to him. M&khan Kh&n went to the tent
of Ma'rtif Kh&n, under the pretence of condoling with him for
the loss of his son, notwithstanding he had died two months
previously. Mi&n Husain Kh&n was informed of this, and went
speedily thither, and told Mi&n M&khan that he had better
forego his intention of imprisoning Mi&n MaVuf, and that he had
better rise and depart in safety, remarking that the King had
^ This expedition is not mentioned in the other histories except the WdhCdt^i
'Muahtdki (MS., p. 117), and the Tdrikh-i JMUi (MS., p. 166).
' A few particulars will he found respecting this officer in an extract from the
WdkCdt'i Mushtdki, showing him to he a sanctimonious and ohstinate old Pharisee.
(See Vol. IV., p. 648.)
3 The Tdrikh-i Ddidi represents that this was of itself subjecting them to great
indignity.
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TAEfKH-I SALiKTra-I AFAGHANA. 17
gone mad. M&khan upon this remonstrance departed, and sent
intelligence of the circumstances to the Salt&n, who replied by
inquiring why he went to people^s tents, and ordering him to raise
a large tent in the plain, and send information to the chiefs that
a Tojdl/armdn had arrived, and that they must come and hear
its contents. Mi&n M&khan was commanded to seize Husain
Kh4n first, and he obeyed these orders. When the chiefs were
assembled, Mi£n Husain came, bringing with him a thousand
men clothed in chain armour, which was concealed by white
clothing. He directed them to keep strict watch outside when
he entered the tent. Mian M&khan had caused another tent
to be erected near the first, in which he had placed a thousand
soldiers, with orders, when Ma'ruf Kh&n approached, to lay hands
first on Husain £h&n. When Husain Kh&n arrived near the
tent, he was told that soldiers were concealed in it for the
parpose of seizing him and MaVuf Kh&n. When Mian
Husain Khan reached it, he ordered his men to undo the
ropes of the tent in which Mi&n M&khan's soldiers were
placed in ambush, and consequently the tent fell on them.^
He then went into the other tent, and requested Mi&n M&khan
to read the farmdn. Mi&n M&khan said, '* It is contrary to
orders to read it after this fashion.'' Mi&n Husain Kh&n
replied, *' I am fully aware that the object of these troops and
this farmdn is to take away my life, and I am not going to
yield it to any such worthless contrivance." He then took the
hand of Mian Ma'rdf and went out.
When Mi&n Husain saw that there was no escape from the
King'^s injustice, he determined to send his vakil to the B&n&
to inform him of his coming. The B&n& was at first fearful and
suspicious of Husain Kh&n, of whose renown he had heard. He
¥ras afraid that he meditated some stratagem. After entering
into a compact, Mi&n Husain went to the B&n& with a thousand
1 The TUHkh'i Ddiidi sajrs, << When the ropes were cut, the tent fell down and
exposed them to riew."
VOL. T. 2
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18 AHMAD TAD6AE.
horsemen, and the Il&n& sent his own nephew to meet him.
After which they had an interview.
On account of the departure of Husain Eh&n, Mi&n M&khan,
notwithstanding that he had with him 30,000 horsemen and
800 gigantic elephants, was much discouraged. The day after
he put his army in battle array, for the purpose of attacking the
B&n&. The B&n&, together with Mi&n Husain Kh&n, advanced
against him with an innumerable army, and the elephants of
Husain Eh&n were recognized amongst them. Mf&n Makhan
sent a message to Mi&n Ma'ruf, saying, '^You and Husain
Khan are great friends. He is now in rebellion, and has joined
the Sult&n's enemies ; what is the good of your remaining with
usp'' Ma'ruf replied, '' I have eaten the salt of Sult&n Bahlol
and his offspring for thirty years ; and I was chief commander
of the array during the reign of Sult&n Sikaudar. The fort of
Jiind was captured through my skill. I slew the Il&j& of
Nagarkot; and that stone, which the Hindus had worshipped
for 3000 years, I exposed to be trodden under foot by all the
people. From the period of the revelation of Isl&m to the
present day, many noble monarchs, who fancied that they re-
sembled Faridun and Sikandar, and who vanquished the world,
were unable even so much as to besiege that fort ; yet it yielded
to my prowess. I brought seven mans of gold from the R&j&
of Bih&r. Since King Ibr&him's accession to the throne all
sorts of upstarts have arisen, who accuse me of being faith-
less and rebellious. Even now I am ready to undertake any
duty that may be assigned, and will not flinch from its
performance.'*'
Whilst this was going on, information was brought of the
arrival of the R&n&'s troops, whereupon M&khan arranged his
army. He placed Sa'id Kh&n Furat and H&ji Khin with 7000
horsemen on the right ; and Daulat Khan, AU&h-d&d Kh&n, and
Yusuf Kh&n on the left; whilst Mi&n M&khan himself com-
manded the advance. Mi&n Husain, although much vexed with
Midn Mikhan, did not present himself, on account of his having
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TAETKH-I SAUCXrN-I AFXQHANA. 19
eaten the salt of the Sult&n.' When hoth parties were prepared
for action, the Hindus advaoeed most valiantly, and succeeded
in defeating the armj of the Sult&n. Many brave and worthy
men were made martyrs, and the others were scattered ; whilst
Mian M&khan returned to the place from which he had set
forth. During the evening, Mi&n Husain Khin sent a message
to M(&n M&khan, saying, *' Now you have learnt what men of
one heart are. It is a hundred pities that 30,000 horsemen
should have been defeated by so few Hindtis. Now yon may
learn what deeds the remembrance of past favours will induce
vassals to perform when they are united heart and soul. Send
Mi&n Ma^rtif duly prepared for action to me at midnight.^'
He also wrote to Mi&n Ma'ruf, to tell him that '^ they had both
seen how fit Mi&n M&khan was to command, and that now it
was proper that they should recollect what they owed the
Snlt&n, although he did not treat his good servants as he ought ;
otherwise people would say, ' You ate the salt of Sultdn Sikandar
for thirty years, and were numbered amongst his chiefs, never-
theless you were ungrateful enough to side with his foes.'"
Accordingly Mi&n Ma'ruf, accompanied by 6000 horsemen,
left his camp, and halted at the distance of two koa from Mi&n
Husain, which chief, on receiving intelligence of his arrival, came
and joined him. The army of the B&n&, flushed with their
success, were rejoicing and amusing themselves, and the angel
of death was smiling at their heedlessness, when suddenly the
sound of horns and kettle-drums withdrew the cotton from the
ears of their senses, and tfie B&jput chieftains were dismayed.
The Afgh&ns rushed on them sword in hand, and commenced a
promiscuous slaughter; the R&n& was wounded, but contrived
to escape with some of his men, — the rest were put to the sword.
In the morning this news was brought to Mi&n M&khan, and
he was ashamed.
1 This is not confirmed by the Tdrikh'i Ddiidi, whicli, on the contrary, sayB that
he led the R6n&*8 troops, and partaed Mi&n M&khan as far as Bay&na, and so alarmed
the Snlt&n hinuelf, that he adyanced from Agra to the river.
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20 AHMAD TAD6AR.
Mian B&yazfd, tUe son of ^At& Lodi, who was the bakhshi of
the army, and a connexion of Mi&n Husain Eh&n, wrote to the
King announcing the victory which Mi&n Husain Eh&n and
Mi&n Ma'rdf had gained, after which Miin Husain Kh&n sent
fifteen of the elephants and 300 of the horses of the B&n& to
Dehli. The Sult&n was much pleased at this success ; he cansed
the kettlo-drums to be beaten loudly, and sent khiVata^ girdles,
daggers, two yaluable elephants, and four horses, to Mi&n Husain
and Mi&n MaVuf. He also caused a farmdn to be written, in
which he loaded both of them with a hundred expressions of
favour and good-will.^
About this time 'Aeam Hum&ydn, one of the chief nobles,
who, together with his sons, held a manscA of 12,000, was sent
to reduce the fort of Gw&lior. When he reached that district,
his skill and activity soon made him master of several |>ar^ana«.
He besieged the fort of Qw&lior, and dug trenches in which he
sheltered his men whilst he made his approaches, and distributed
the several batteries amongst his officers. He projected fiery
missiles, or shells, into the fort, and the Hindds filled bags
with cotton steeped in oil, which they ignited and threw down
upon the enemy. Many men were consamed on both sides.
The Sult&n's troops brought forward their artillery, and fired
their balls with such effect that the defenders of the fort were
unable to move to and fro in its interior, and were at last so
much distressed that they were near surrendering. The B&j&
had already determined to send seven mans of gold, several pair
of elephants, and his daughter to the Sult&n, when, unexpec-
^ As the other historiau lay not a word of the expedition against the B&n&, we
learn nothing from them of the hoasted perfidy of the honoured scoundrel Hosain
Xh&n ; and in the WdkCdt-i Mushtdkl and the Tdrikh-i DdiuU there is quite a
different condnsion of this aff'air, oomprised in a rambling unconnected 8tatemeiit»
which is not worth translation or abstract Suffice it to say that, according to both
these works, he was, in the end, murdered at Chanderi by order of this Yindictire
8ult4n, who rewarded the assassin with 700 gold pieces, and ten Tillages in tVdm,
which is calculated to give us a high idea of the origin of rent-free holdings. AU
the authorities agree in the statement of the murder, and of the disgust and alann
it inspired.
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TAfirKH-I SALAXrN.I AFAGHANA. 21
'tedlj^ a farmin aniyed, ordering 'Azam Ham&ydn as soon as
he received it to proceed to Oonrt.
When ^Azam Hum&yun learned its contents, he raised the
siege and prepared to depart. His sons and friends expressed
to him their suspicions that the Solt&n intended to take away
his life, as he had already done that of other noblemen; and
several grandees who were attached to him also advised him
not to go. ''Azam Hnm&ydn replied that he had eaten the salt
of that &mily for forty years, and had been one of their
staonchest adherents, and that if he now forsook them he would
be considered ungrateful, and he could not suffer the disgrace
of that imputation. Mahmiid Kh&n Lodi and D&fid Eh&n
Sarw&n(, who were among the chief grandees, said, '* The Sult&n
has lost his senses, he cannot distinguish between those who
serve him well and those who serve him ill. You have now
30,000 horse with you. Go to your son's residence, and take
measures for the protection of your life, because we are fully
convinced that he has sent for you for the purpose of treating
you as he did Mi&n Bhua and H&ji Kh&n.^ 'Azam Hum&yun
replied, ** I cannot act thns^ I cannot turn aside and blacken
my fiioe, let what may happen.^
After this discussion he marched towards BehTi. On the road
news reached him that the Sult&n had put to death Mahmud
Sarp&ni and Hish&m Kh&n S4h6-khail, two of the principal
nobles. D&ud Eh&n and All&h-d&d Kh&n said, "No evil has
yet be&llen you; return from this and go to your son at
Jaunpur/' '*Azam Hum&y6n said, "You speak truth; his
actions are indeed bad: but I cannot act as you suggest/^
As "^Azam Hum&y6n's doom was sealed, he did not pay atten-
tion to the warnings of his friends and well-wishers, but continued
his march to Dehli. When he approached it, the Sult&n's order
arrived, directing him to give up all his horses and elephants.
This he had no sooner done, than his whole army became dis-
oi^nized. When he was within two ho% of the city, the King'^s
cup-bearer, by name Mukhlis, was sent for the purpose of
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22 AHMAD TAD6AB.
depriving him of the command of the armj, treasury, and their
appurtenances. Mukhlis was likewise ordered to mount him on
a small pony, and bring him into the city, and cast him into a
dungeon ; all of which he did, and depriyed him of ^everything.
'Azam Hum&ydn sent to the Sultin to say, ^^ Yon of course will
do what pleases you, but I have two things of importance to
represent to you : the first is that my son ^ is very turbulently
disposed, and that measures should be taken speedily to repress
him ; the second, that I may not be prevent^ from obtaining
water for my ablutions, and the necessaries for purifying myself
after performing the offices of nature.'^' After this he made no
further petition^ and at last the Sultin caused this single-minded
man to be slain in his prison, and thus destroyed the root of his
empire with his own hands. The murder of 'Azam Hum&yun
was the first cause of the decline of the kingdom,' for Fath
Kh&n, his son, who commanded 10,000 borse^ and was Governor
of Bih&r, joined himself, in Bih^, with the son of Dary& Kh&n
Loh&nf, Sh&hb&z Eh&n by name. They theiii openly rebelled
against the Sultdn, and collected 70,000 horse. Sh&hb&z Eh&n^
assumed the title of Sultdn Muhammad. This insurrection was of
a very serious nature, as all Bih&r ceased to obey the Sult&n.
At this period, Daulat £h&n Lod(, son of T&tir Kh&a, who
1 That is IsI6m Eh&n.
' The I'drlkh'i Ddvdi (MS., p. 169) transfers the scene of this disgncefnl treat-
ment of an old and attached adherent to the more probable locality of Jifgn^ instead
of Dehli.
> The Tabahdt'% Akbari and the IHrikh-i Khdn-Jdkdn (MS., p. 148} seem to
ascribe an equal effect to the deliberate murder of Husain Eh&n Farmuli.
« The Wdktdt-% MtuhtdJn, the Akbar-ndma, the 8her Shdhl, Ahmad Yltdgftr,
and the Memoirs of Bdbar, Btfle him Bih&r Kh&n; bat he is more generally
called Bah&dur Eh&n, as in Firishta, the Makhgan-i Afghdni, and in the
Tdrikh'% Khdn-Jahdn Zodi, where there is a fuller account of his rebellion. The
WdkCdt-i Mushtdki says the khutha was read in hii name for two years and some
months (MS. p. 82). In that work will be found still ampler details respecting this
insurrection and the subsequent proceedings, which, howeyer, are not of sufficient
importance to be translated. There is also a difference about whether the fiither or
son first assumed the title -of *^ Sult&n Mi^ammad Sh&h." The Makhtan-i Afghdni,
the Tdrikh'i Khdn-Jahdn Lodi, and Tdrikh-% Ddudi, say the father, Dary& Kh&n;
Firishta, Ahmad T&dg&r, the Tabakdi-i Akbari, the WdkCdUi Muihtdki, and the
Mefnoirs, say the son, fiah&dur Eh&n.
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TAEIKH-I SAUCTTN-I AFAGHAKA. 23
had long goyerned ihe Panj&b, was sent for from Lahore. He
delayed to come, and sent his yonngest son, Dil&war Eh&n,
instead. The latter was asked why his father had not come in
person. He replied that he wonld come hereafter and bring
treasure with him. He was told that if his &ther did not come,
he would be seized like the other nobles. The Sult&n then
ordered him to be taken to the dungeons, in order that he might
see several nobles who were suspended from the waUs. When
Dil&war Kh&n witnessed this sight, he was seized with a fit of
trembling, and was much alarmed. On his return to the presence,
the Snlt&n said, ** You have seen the condition of those who have
disobeyed me." Dil&war £h&n prostrated himself. It is said
that the Sultan intended to blind him with a red-hot bodkin,
and suspend him abo against the wall ; but when Dilawar Eh&n
perceived that there was no other means of escaping the Sult&n's
severity, he fled from Dehli, and came to his father in six days,
and told him that if he did not look to himself^ the Sult&n would
put him to death in some cruel manner.
Daulat Eh&n was thrown into a deep meditation. He reflected
that if he rebelled he would be accused of ingratitude ; and that
if he fell into the clutches of the Sult&n's wrath, he would
not escape alive. At last he determined to place himself under
allegiance to some other sovereign. He accordingly sent Dil&-
war Eh&n to B&bar Sh&h, in order that he might make known
to him, in detail, the evil disposition of the Sult&n, the discord
which existed amongst the nobles, and the disgust of the army,
and beg him to invade Hindust&n.^
Dil&war Kh&n went with all expedition, and reached E&bul
In ten days. He intimated to those who stood at the foot of the
throne that an Afgh&n, who had been oppressed by his sovereign,
had come fi:x)m Hindust&n, and wished to speak to the King.
The order was given for his admission. He went as a suppli-
cant, and explained, in detail, the distressed state of Hindustan.
1 Thfise and the Babseqneiii eyenis will be found differentlj recounted in the
extiBctB from the Tdrikh^i Khdn-Jahdn LodL
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24 AHMAD YKDQKR.
Babar said, '^ Yon have eaten the salt of Solt&n Ibr&him and of
his father and grandfather for thirty years, and your grandfather
and father have held high posts for the last twenty years ; how is
it that you have thus all at once forsaken him and sought this
court P " Dil&war Kh&n replied, " For forty years my grand-
father and father have risked their lives in his service, and
strengthened his throne. But Sultin Ibr&him maltreats his
&ther''s nobles, and has put twenty-three of them, the supporters
of his kingdom, to dei^th, without any cause, and ruined their
families. He has suspended some from walls, and has caused
others to be burned alive. When many of the nobles saw that
they could hope for no safety from him, they sent me to your
presence. They are all ready to obey you, and they look with
anxiety for your coming.^
At that period the marriage of Mirz& K&mr&n was celebrated
with princely magnificence in the King's garden. • • ♦ When
the bridal ceremonies had been completed in a manner satis-
factory to his benevolent intentions, the King passed the whole
of that night in the garden. When day dawned, he repeated
his prayers to the Great Disposer of all things, and stretching
forth the hand of supplication, said, *^ O God 1 if the govern-
ment of Hindust&n is destined to be given to me and mine,
let these productions of Hind be brought presently before me,
betel-leaves and mangoes, and I shall accept them as an omen.''
It so happened that when the mango season was approaching,
Daulat Kh&n had sent half-ripe mangoes preserved in pots of
honey, and betel-leaves, by the hand of Ahmad Kh&n. The
King was told that Ahmad Kh&n, the ambassador of Daulat
Kh&n, desired an audience. Dil&war took the offerings into the
royal presence, and displayed them. When B&bar's eyes fell on the
fruit, he arose from his throne, and prostrated himself before the
Almighty, who, he was persuaded, of His boundless generosity,
had granted him the sovereignty of Hind. He gave a horse and
khil'at to both Dil&war Kb&n and Ahmad Kh&n, and entrusted
to them ten 'Ir&ki horses, and some pieces of fine linen for
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TARrSH.I SAUCrXN'I AFAGHANA. 25
Danlat Kh&n ; and then directed Ahmad Elh&n to precede him
with these articles.^
From that day he prepared for the invasion of Hinduat&n, and
despatched Jahingir Euli Eh&n, with 2000 Mughal horsemen^
to take precautions for securing the roads and ferries, and for
the collection of timber for the purpose of making boats.
On Wednesday, 2nd Shaww&l, a.h. 932 (July, 1626 a.d.)i he
set forth as a mighty monarch should, and marched to Pesh'&war,
which city he plundered. When the royal army advanced from
thence, Daulat Elh&n came to pay his respects to the King, and
presented 10,000 gold ashrafU and twenty elephants. When
B&bar left E&bul, he had only 2000 Mughals with him.' But
after his agreement with Daulat Kh&n, he ordered fresh troops
to be enlisted ; and by the time he reached Lahore he was sur*
rounded by a numerous army, and the Panj&b fell into the hands
of the Ghaghat&i nobles.
When news reached Sultan Ibr&him, in ^gra, that the
Mughals had conquered the Panj&b as far as Lahore, he was
thunderstruck, and repented him of having put his faithful
servants to death. But what benefit can be derived from water
which has fallen down from the head and been spent P B&bar,
like a roaring lion, advanced into the field ; while Ibr&him came
to Dehli from ^ra, and wrote to Daulat Kh&n, saying, ^* You
attained your present rank through my father's kindness ; why
have you brought the Mughals into my paternal inheritance^ and
made it over to them P I will now make peace with you, and
will never molest you or your children. I swear this on the
Kur&n. Beflect, and abandon your present absurd project.**^
Daulat Kh&n replied, " It is true that I was reared and raised
from the dust, and brought up by Sult&n Sikandar. I passed my
1 The Tdrfkk-i IHUdi (MS. p. 171) Bays that ahont this time Ml&n Bhila was pot
to death; that Daulat Kh&n Lodl died; that Sidt&n Muhammad, the Bih6r rehel,
■leo died ; and that ' Alam Kh&n, son of Bahlol, was proclaimed king imder the title of
'Al&n-d din, hy some of the diraffeoted nohles, who soUoited the support of B&har to
maintain him in opposition to 8ult&n Ihr&hSm.
' Other anthorities gire the morp probable amount of 10,000.
Digitized by VjOOQIC •
26 AHMAD YADGAK.
life in endeayouring to serve him. That monarch (who has found
mercy) endured much from his nobles ; he was studious of pleas-
ing : and he never endeavoured to put me to death. Whereas,
whilst you were yet young, you listened to what two or three
insidious advisers said to you, and thus shook your empire to its
foundation. You also destroyed several of your Other's servants,
the pillars of the kingdom, and put an end to the confidence
which others reposed in you. I have not brought the Mughals ;
but your own bad actions have.''
When the whole Panj&b, and the country extending as far as
Sirhind and His&r Firozah, had fallen into the hands of the
Ghaghat&i nobles, they marched towards Dehli.
Sult&n Ibrihtm was in Sonpath, when news arrived that cer-
tain grandees, thinking the opportunity a good one, and having
heard of the coming of B&bar Sh&h, had besieged Dehli with
nearly 40,000 men. On hearing this, the Sult&n again turned his
steps towards Dehli, to defeat the rebels, who came to the conclu-
sion that it would be improper to fight with the Sult&n during
the day, because they would be put to shame on account of the
benefits which he had conferred on them ; and that it would be
preferable to attack him by night.^
When the night was far spent, they reached the Sultan's army,
and in the mean time several chiefs managed to escape from the
Sult&n'^s camp and join them. After putting the Sult&n's troops
to flight, and compelling the Sult&n to conceal himself^ a portion
of the rebel force was scattered tumultuously in search of plun-
der. After sunrise, when the Sult&n looked out in the direction
of the rebel army, on observing 'Alam Kh&n ' and a few atten-
^ This is ascribing to these slippery and perjured knares finer feelings than they
were capable of entertaining. Bfcbar gi^es a mnch more probable reason for the
selection of the night: — ^^'The confederates concurred in opinion that if the battle vaa
fought in the daytime, the Afgh&ns, from regard to their reputation with their
countrymen, would not flee ; but that if the attack was made by night each chief would
shift for himself.'' — Memoirsj p. 295. We hare another amusing instance of this
facial modesty and timidity ascribed to the townsmen of Agra, at the beginning of
Isl&m Sh&h*s reign.
' This was the Sult&n's uncle, who had been proclaimed King under the title of
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TABrKH-I SALAXrN.I AFAGHANA. 27
dants standing near, he ordered his men to attack them ; upon
which they all fled away. Thus the rebels derived no benefit
from their disloyalty, in spite of their having assembled a force
of 40,000 men«
After this, when B&bar heard of the confusion prevailing in
the Salt&n's army, he IcA Eam&l, and Snlt&n Ibr&him arrived in
pargana Ganaor, and there inquired of the astrologers in order
that he might learn from the celestial bodies what was to happen.
He inquired on whose side the victory should be. The as-
trologers cautiously replied, '*It appears from the motion of
the stars that the whole of our horses and elephants have
gone over to the Mughal army/' The Sult&n said, ^^ This is
a proof that I shall vanquish the Mughals/' They replied, **' So
let it be/'
The astrologers, being aware that B&bar would be victorious,
deserted th« camp. Amin Eh4n also fled from the same place,
and presented himself before B&bar. Whilst these events were
going on, Hamid Eh&n, of the Sult&n''s own tribe, was coming to
the assistance of the Sult&n with 4000 sawdrsy when he encoun-
tered the advance-guard under Prince Muhammad Hum&yun,
and a battle began, in which Hamid Eh4n's troops being defeated,
many were killed, and the rest dispersed.
On Thursday the Sult&n summoned all his nobles and soldiers,
and ordered them to dress themselves in the best clothes they
had with them. He caused his embroidered tents and satin
canopies to be erected, and all the preparations for a festival to
be made. He threw amongst them all the gold, jewels, pearls,
and ashra/is -which he possessed, and said, ^'0 friends, to-morrow
we shall do battle with the Mughal army. If I gain the victory,
I will endeavour to please you ; if I do not, be at least content
'Al&u-d din. The Ahbar-ndma tells us that this action occurred near Hodal, a few
miles 8. from Behli ; and that B&bar, after his conquest of Upper India, sent 'Alam
£h&n to be confined in a fortress in Badakhshlin, whence he effected his escape ; and
after finding refuge amongst the Afgh&ns, fied at last to Gujar&t. His son, T&t&r
Kh&n, made himself conspicuous during the reign of Hum&ytin, and was slain at
Mandr&il, in 941 h. (1534 A.D.), in an action with the Mughals.
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28 AHMAD YADGAB.
with these presents and my declared intentions/'^ The whole of
that day was spent in feasting and rejoicing. On the morrow
they made ready for war. Sultdn Ibr&him, on the one side,
marched two koa to the west of Pdnipat ; whilst Bdbar, on the
other, mounting his horse at the aardi of Garaunda, chose his
position two koB in the direction of the east.
The Mughal army was 24,000 strong, and that of Sult&n
Ibr&him numbered 50,000 men^ and 2000 war elephants. Bat
the entire force of Sult&n Ibr&him was disgusted and yexed
with his evil deeds. On Friday, the 4th ^ of Bajab, a.h. 932,
Ibr&him being destined to die, the armies were ranged in battle
array, facing each other. B&bar advanced, and both parties made
ready for action. B&bar ordered the Mughals to be separated
into three divisions ; the advanced guard to remain in its place,
and the other two to advance and attack the enemy .^ Although
the Afgh&n army greatly outnumbered its opponents, yet the
soldiers were dispirited and disheartened from the Sultan's ill-
treatment, and the nobles were offended. A fierce conflict, never-
theless, took place in the plain to the east of P&nipat: so desperate
^ B&bar, however, represents that he was so penurious that lie could not be in-
duced to giTe away anything, and was *' beyond measure, avaricious in accumulating
pelf."— Jfcwotr* ofBdbar, p. 804. [See VoL IV. of this work, p. 262.]
> Abd-1 Fazl, following fi&bar himself, says 100,000, and elephants 1000. His
own army did not amount to more than 12,000 men ; but his artillery seems to have ,
been very effectively served. The Tdrikh-i Bdiidl (MS. p. 176) says 100,000 cavalry
and 1000 elephants ; B&bar*s army being 15,000 horse and foot and a few elephants.
The Makhzan-i Jfghdnl (MS. p. 140) rates Ibr&him's army at 100,000 cavalry, a
strong force of infantry, and 5000 elephants. The Tdrikh-i Khdn-Jahdn £odi (MS.
p. 150) gives the same, adding, however, the important element of "much artillery " —
jLmJ u4;UmJ t —omitted even by Kiz&mu-d dtn Ahmad and Firishta, and noticed
in detail only by B&bar himself,
3 This is an error. The TdHkh-i Ldiidi says the 8th ; though in its version of a
Hindf quatrain it has the 7th. The Makhtan^i Afghdni and Tdrikh-% Khdn^JoMoH
Lodi say the 7th, Firishta the 10th. B&bar is. not quite precise, but signifies that
it was either the 7th or 8th, corresponding with April 20th or 2lBt, 1526.
* The original and the Tdrikh-i IktMi (MS. p. 176) say, "The other two divirions
to advance from behind the army of the Sult&n aud commence the attack.*' The
Tdrikh^i Khdn-Jahdn Lodi and the Makhgan'i Afghdni are equally inoomprehenstUe,
as will be seen from Dom's translation, p. 78. fi&bar is, as usual, dear and expIioiL
-[See Vol. IV., p. 254.]
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MRrXH-I SALAXrN-I AFAGHANA. 29
a battle, indeed, had neyer been seen. Manj of the Sult&n's
soldiers were killed. He himself was standing with some of his
men near him, when Mahmiid Kh&n came forward, and said,
'* Onr affairs are in a yerj desperate condition ; you had better
leave the field of battle. If the King is saved, it will be easj to
find another army, and again make war against the Mughals.
We shall soon be able to find an opportunity of accomplishing
oar wishes. This is my opinion; but whatever His Majesty
thinks is best." The Sult&n replied, ''O Mahmud Kh&n, it is
a disgrace for kings to fly from the field of battle. Look here,
my nobles, my companions, my well-wishers and friends have
partaken of the cup of martyrdom. One has fallen here, another
there; where then can I now goP My horse^s legs are dyed
with blood up to his chest. Whilst I was King, I governed the
empire as I pleased ; now, perfidious Fortune has sided with the
Mughals, what pleasure is there in lifeP It is better that I
should be like my friends, in the dust and in blood." On saying
this, he rushed into the thickest of the fight, with 5000 brave
horsemen, who were all that remained to him of his best troops,
and slew many of the Mughals. After which, towards the close
of the day, he obtained martyrdom.^ He fell on the spot where
his tomb now is. When B&bar was informed of his death, he was
standing in the rear. He sent Dil&war Kh&n to make inquiries
as to the truth of the intelligence. He accordingly went out to
the plain where the slain were lying, and beheld that powerful
^ The Makhzan-i Afghdni (MS. 142) adds tlie fbUowing eulogy upon this execrable
tyrant : — ^ On erery Friday night an extraordinary number of people are coUected at
Idi tomb, and pilgrima present their oblations and prayers in behalf of tiiat falcon of
the Empyrean of martyrdom — ^no King before him having attained that dignity,
than which none can be more exalted. May God enlighten and grant him rest in
FtoadiGe!" Instead of << oblations and prayers," Br. Born (p. 79} translates **the
pOgrims of Narwar and Kanoj," aeading --•ii • ifJ instead of •.•uijjtJj
There could not be a better illustration of the amazing difficulties we haye to contend
with in deciphering Oriental manuscripts ; for the words, when deprived of their
diacritical points, are almost identical. This should induce a spirit of caution and
forbearance in commenting on the errors and lapses of our feUow-labourers in this un-
inriting field of literature.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
30 jlHMAD YXDGAE,
Sult&n prostrate in the dust and weltering in bloody the royal
crown fallen from his head, the state oanopy also on the
ground.'
Dilawar Kh&n returned and related what he had seen. The
tender heart of B4bar prompted him to visit the spot. He raised
his head from the earth and said, " Honour to your bravery ! "
He then commanded brocade to be brought, and sweetmeats to
be prepared; and ordered Dil&war Eh&n and Amir £hali& to
bathe him and bury him where he had &llen. He also directed
that care should be taken of the property of Ibr&him. On the
same day 2700 horses, and 1500 elephants, and the royal treasure
were brought into B&bar's camp.
The next day he marched thence, and encamped on the
western side of the city, from whence he despatched Amir
Khalifa, AlUh-d&d Khdn, and Tursam Bah&dur, with 10,000
of the bravest Mughal horsemen, for the purpose of protecting
the valuable property and riches which were in the cities of
Dehli and Agra.
The Afghdns, after being absolute rulers for seventy years,
left their habitations, their goods, and their wealth, and proceeded
to Bengal, and a complete dispersion of them ensued.
After making arrangements with regard to the spoil of the
Sult&n's camp, B&bar departed for Dehli, where, on his arrival,
he took possession of the vacant throne.
1 The author of the I^rikk-i Bdvdl (MS. p. 178) tells ub that he had heard firom a
man 120 years old, who had been present in this action, that Sult&n Ibr&hlm, moanted
on a black 'Ir&ki horse, and dressed in his royal habiliments, had fled firom the field of
battle, and endearoured to cross into the Dofcb at the ferry at Bur&na; bat not being
able, after a long search, to procure a boat, he plunged his horse into the liter,
followed by some of his horsemen, of whom some few escaped safe to the other side.
The Sult&n himself was drowned in the attempt. All this was witnessed by the
narrator* 8 own eyes, for he was standing on the bank of the Jumna looking on. The
old narrator may have witnessed this scene, but who — as the sarcastic historLan of
the Decline and FaU remarks in a similar instance— who will be witness for the old
narrator?
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TAEfKH-I SALATIN-I AFAGHANA. 81
AcdBBNTS AND OcCUBBENCES IN StTLTAN IbBAHIm's BeION.^
Anecdote of a woman who committed three murders in one house.
There was a man in S&mana who gained his livelihood by
trading. He was called away from home on business, and en-
tmsted the care of his house to a trustworthy individual, between
whose habitation and his own there was only a wall. This
neighbour, therefore, used frequently to go into the merchant''s
house, and assist and advise in all its concerns, and see that
matters went on smoothly during the owner's absence. When-
eyer he went there, he saw a young man frequently entering.
He &ncied at first that the young man must be some connexion
of the owner of the dwelling ; but he afterwards reflected that if
he were, the house would not have been given into his own charge.
He therefore determined to find out all about the youth. He then
made a hole in the partition wall, and from time to time looked
through it into the next house. One night he saw the young
man, dressed in white and scented with perAime, enter the mer*
chant's dwelling, place a handsome carpet near the merchant's
wife, and spread out upon it sweetmeats, wine, and pan ; after
partaking of which, shortly afterwards, they lay down together
and indulged in improper familiarities. The woman had a child,
which slept in another room, and when it cried she gave it some
milk, and then returned to her lover ; but as the child persisted
in worrying her with its cries, the woman went and squeezed its
throat so that it died, and slept the sleep which knows no waking.
After which she again sought the youth's embraces. When a
short period had passed, the young man said, '^ Why has not the
child cried again for such a long time?" The woman replied,
"I have taken steps to prevent it from crying altogether.*' The
young man was greatly disturbed, and inquired what she meant.
She answered; "I have killed the boy on your account." The
' It is strange that no mention occurs here, or in any other Afgh&n history except
the Tdrikh'i BdMi^ of the extraordinary ahundance which prevailed during this
irign.— See VoL IV., p. 475.
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32 AHMAD YADGAR.
youth said, ^* 0 creature, who fearest not God, for the sake of »
moment's pleasure you have slain the fruit of your own womb ;
what confidence can I place in you P ^^ He immediately put on
his clothes, with the intention of quitting the place. The woman
seized his skirt, saying, ^* It is through you that I hare acted
thus, and you cease to lore me ; for Ood's sake do one thing to
sare me from shame. Make a hole in the comer of this room
in order that I may bury him/^ The youth at last reluctantly
consented. She accordingly brought a mattock, and gave it to
him, and he dug the hole ; when the woiAan brought the child,
and gave it to him to conceal it in the ground. The young man,
taken in by the woman's artifice, bent down towards the hole for
the purpose of placing the child in it ; and that deceitful woman
then raised the mattock with both hands, and struck him so
violently on the head, that she split it in two^ and he fell dead
into the hole. She covered him over and smoothed down the
earth. The neighbour had witnessed all that had happened, and
was thunderstruck at the woman^s atrocity. Nevertheless, the
woman, feigning the deepest grief, went about, weeping and ex-
claiming, "A wolf has eaten my child."
When, after a lapse of some time, Iier husband returned, people
came to condole with him ; and they repeated the usual prayers.
When they went away, the friendly neighbour said to him, "Come
for a short time to my house to dissipate your melancholy.'^ The
merchant accordingly accompanied him, and after they had par-
taken of food, he related to him the whole history of the deaths of
both the child and the young man, and said, " Pretend that you
have hidden some gold, and that you want a mattock for the
purpose of digging it up.'" He consented to do this, and the
woman, much pleased when she heard about the treasure, readily
brought the mattock, upon which he immediately began to dig
up in the spot which had been indicated. When the woman
perceived that her secret would become known, she &stened the
door of the room in which the digging was going on with a
chain, and set fire to the roof. When the flames burst forth, she
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MEfKH-I SALATrN-I AFAGHANA. 33
began to cry out for her neighbours to come, as her house had
caught fire and her husband was burning. By the time they
arriyed, the unfortunate man was roasted. The friend had even
seen aU this likewise, and haying collected all the inhabitants of
the neighbourhood, went with them to the A*o^trd/, and explained
what had occurred. On the receipt of this information, they
opened the hole, and found the bodies of the youth and child.
They then buried this bloody-minded woman up to the middle, in
the centre of the bdzdr^ and goaded her with arrows till she died.
Haibat Khdn Cfurg-anddz.
Haibat 'Kh&a was called the wolf-slayer, and had thus obtained
the name. One day he went out hunting in the neighbourhood
of Bay&na, and made a pleasant party in the Sikandari garden,
with Daryd £h&n Sarw&ni, Mahmud Khdn Lodi, and Daulat
Kh&n Urmar. While they were seated there, two large wolves
carried away some sheep, and the shepherds began to lament
loudly. It happened that Haibat Kh&n had gone to perform the
offices of nature. The wolves approached him ; he took his bow
from a servant, who was in attendance, and as he was a powerful
shot, the arrow left the bow, passed through the bodies of both
wolves, and stuck in the ground beyond. From that day he
received his honorary surname.
At drinking parties he was so liberal that every one wondered.
One day Jal&l Eh&n, the brother of Sult&u Ibr&him, said, '' O
Haibat Xh&n, I have heard that you are generous when intoxi-
cated; if you were so when you are in your senses, I should
consider you worthy of praise.'' Haibat Kh&n from that day
left off drinking wine, and gave away so much, even with his wits
about him, that people were still more astounded ; for he broke
up all his gold and silver drinking vessels, and gave even them
away.
One day, an inhabitant of Bay&na, by name Mumin, repeated
some lines in praise of the Kh&n, and gave them to the minstrels
VOL. T. 3
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84 AHMAD TADGAR.
to recite in the presence of the exalted Kh&n, on the daj when
the nobles assembled at his fSte. Upon the minstrels' recitation
of this panegyric, the Kh&n presented the carpet, on which he
was that day sitting, to the poet, and 2000 tankas to the min-
strels. This will serve, in some degree, to show to what an
extent he carried his generosity.
Reign of Sultan Babar.
Historians relate that in the year 932 (15*26 A.D.), Sh&h B&bar,
the Conqueror of the World, remained encamped for a week on
the battle-field on which he had gained his victory, and made
himself master of all the property, elephants, equipages, war-
like implements, etc., of Sult&n Ibr&him. He considered that
that spot had been a fortunate one to him. He summoned
the elders of the city, and gained the goodwill of all by his
liberality; and made Sult&n Muhammad Aughuli, who had
come to his assistance during that action with great diligence
and bravery accompanied by 10,000 horse, governor of P&nipat,
and granted him as a gift the revenues due upon one harvest.
After which he directed his course towards Dehli, the inhabitants
of which city, from dread of the pride and power of the Mughals,
had deserted it. He accordingly despatched worthy men of
Hindust&n for the purpose of calming the fears of the elders
and gentry of the city and its environs, and induce them by
promises of the royal favour and liberality to come to the Court
of the Protector of the World.
When His Majesty arrived at Sonpath, the chiefs and chaudJiaris
of the city, together with the soldiers and bankers and other
classes, went to visit him, and were treated with honour and
kindness. During the first two months of His Majesty's reign,
he behaved to every one with such kindness and generosity, that
dread and terror were banished from the hearts of all men, so
that they were well disposed towards his government. He
remained a month and some days in the neighbourhood of the
fort of Indrapat, on the banks of the river Jumna, and reposed
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TABrEH-I SALATfH-I AFA6HANA. 35
himself ihere, as it was a pleasant and agreeable spot,^ In the
same year, he sent Amir Ehalf& and Amir Euli Beg to ^gra,
where the mother and family of Sult&n Ibr&him were; and
they went thither by uninterrupted marches. Sult4n Ibr&him's
mother sent them a Est of the property, valuaUes, treasures,
money, gold and jewelled plate, horses, elephants, camels, tents,
male and female slayes of the late king, and entreated him to
spare her. Mahmud £h&n, a slave of Sultan Ibr&him, took
this list, and read it in the presence of Amir £hali&, who
forwarded it to B&bar, and remained himself with his troops to
protect the fort and those who were inside it, and at the same
time prevent them from quitting it, and taking any of the
property away with them.
At this time, news came that some of Ibr&him's nobles had
assembled at Jaunpdr, and begun plundering the country. The.
Conqueror of the World sent Amir Euli Beg, together with
Prince Mirzd K&mr&n, in that direction. When the Afgh&ns
received intelligence of the advent of the fortunate prince, they
fled towards Patna, and Jaunpur fell into his hands. Mirz&
K&mr&n left Amir Euli Beg there with a large army, and then
returned to Court ; after which he was ordered into the Panj&b,
and Mirzi ^Askari was appointed to the charge of E&bul, and
directed to make himself speedily master of Thatta. Muhammad
Huro&yun Mirz&, the eldest son of the Eing and heir-apparent,
remained with His Majesty.
When the fortunate princes and valiant nobles had thus been
established in different places, information reached the Court of
the rebellion of Hasan Eh&n Mew&tti and B6n& S&nk&, who had
collected a large force in Mew4t. Orders were given for the
enlistment of new troops, and Ibr&him's treasures were distri-
buted amongst the army. Hasan Eh&n was a man of royal
descent from several generations, and his &mily had possessed
regal power until the reign of Firoz Sh&h. Bind S&nk&y who
was at that time a powerful chief, sent a message to Hasan
t ThiB is not at all in accordance with the Memoirs of B&bar.
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36 AHMAD TADGAB.
Kh&n, saying, "The Mughals have entered Hindust&n, have
slain Sult&n Ibr&him, and taken possession of the country ; it is
evident that they will likewise send an army against both of us ;
if you will side with me, we will be allies, and not suffer them to
take possession.^ Hasan Kh&n, carried away by the vanity
which the possession of so large a force produced, and by the
£&n&'s message, did not send the presents which he had pre-
pared for the Sult&n, and the Sing's vakil returned home without
accomplishing his purpose. These things came to the King's
hearing in Agra, and Mfrz& Hind&l and Muhammad Mahdi
Khw&ja, the king's son-in-law, were sent with an immense army,
which was shortly afterwards followed by B&bar himself.
When Hasan £h&n was informed of the approach of the vic-
torious army, he sent to tell B&n& Sankd of it. Fpon this the
B.&n& left his home, and assembled an army of Hindus with the
intention of making war. He marched and joined Hasan Kh&n,
and prepared for action in the plains near Firozpdr Jharka.
Ban& Sivki placed Hasan Kh&n on the right, and took up his
own post on the left. As he was secretly displeased with Hasan
Kh4n, he determined to ensnare and ruin him. He, therefore,
privately sent a vakil to Mirz& Hind&l and £hw&ja Mahdi, to
say that he was the slave and obedient servant of the King, and
that he consented to the reading of the khutba and the coining
of money in His Majesty's name ; that Hasan Kh&n had com-
pelled him to go to war, but that he would not fight the royal
troops, but retire early; and that they should make arrangements
so that Hasan might be either captured or slain, as in the event
of his death they would obtwn the country of Mew&t.
When the battle began, and both parties were slaughtering
one another, Mahdi Khw&ja attacked Hasan Eh&n, who was
unable to contend with him, and after a short engagement took
to flight, and his soldiers were scattered all over the countty.
L&d Eh&n, a slave of Hasan Kh&n, having displeased him,
joined his brothers, and by their advice behaved with infidelity
towards his bene&ctor. When Hasan Kh&n had been forsaken
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TARTKH-I SALATIK-I AFA6HANA. 37
bj all his fneDds and followers, and no one remained with him,
he arrired at a well, and said to his servant, ^*If yon have any-
thing to eat, bring it." He brought some cakes and roast meat,
and placed them before him. He had eaten only a few morsels,
when a noble of Sh&h B&bar arrived. Hasan Kh&n arose in a
state of confusion, with the intention of mounting, when his
servant drew his sword on him, wounded him, and threw him
into the well ; after which, he seized his horse, and fled. After
his flight, Hindu Beg pursued and plundered his army, none of
whom attempted to resist. The troops of the Vanquisher of the
Universe obtained immense booty in horses, camels, etc., and
gained a great victory. That district was entirely subdued,
fiom one end to the other, and collectors were appointed in
various places. Orders were issued for reading the khutha
and coining money, and d^jdgir was bestowed upon the fortunate
Sh&hz&da.
One year after His Majesty's accession, M{rz& £&mr&n came
from Lahore, and brought many horses and much wealth, which
he had taken from the Bhattis and Khokars (Ghakhars), which he
presented to the Sult&n. About this time, news arrived from
Jaunpur, that Sult&n Muhammad, the Afgh&n, had assumed
regal authority in Bih&r, caused money to be struck and the
khutba to be read in his own name, and had brought an army
against Mirz& Hind&l, who, not being strong enough to resist
him, fled from Jaunpur, and was pursued by the troops of Sultan
Muhammad. At last, the Mirz& gave him battle, and lost many
men. His Majesty appointed Sult&n Junaid Birl&s and Haidar
Malik Hdlak to proceed with other Mughals and a Hinddst&ni
army. Junaid made two marches in one, and arrived there, and
fiiced Sult&n Muhammad. Such fighting took place as no age
has witnessed The Afgh&ns were unable to resist the impetuous
valour of the Mughals, and were dispersed. Jaunpur again fell
to the Sult&n, and an account of the victory, together with the
spoil and horses, was sent to the Imperial Court. Sult&n Junaid
was directed to remain there, and to send the Mirz& to the
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38 AHMAD TAD6AR.
presence. Junaid behared in saoh a way towards the Afgb&ns
that no one sided with theni) and the hearts of the rebeUions
Afgh&ns and other disaffected men were filled with terror and
dread of him. Mirzd Hind&l was again sent to Kandahar, and
in tho second year of His Majesty's reign a beautiM garden
was made on the borders of the river Jamna, and pathways were
introduced into Hindtist&n for the first time, they not baring
been in use before. He passed his time in that garden, in com-
pany with Mughal companions and friends, in pleasure and
enjoyment and carousing, in the presence of enchanting dancing
girls with rosy cheeks, who sang tunes, and displayed their ac-
complishments. The Mughals, who had fcr many years desired
tlie possession of Hindust&n, at last goyemed it. Mirz& K&mr&n
also prepared a splendid garden similar to this in Lahore. Amir
Ehalif4, being a person of influence, and possessing the chief
authority, managed the goyemment, and his decrees were like
those of the Saltan himself.
When the royal affairs had been well and firmly established,
and the mandates of the King had spread oyer land and sea like
running water, the B&jd of Ghanderi rebelled. Arghdn Kh&n,
who was in that province, attacked him. The B&J&, however,
plundered on the road the money which was being sent to the
royal treasury. The Buler of the Universe sent Arghun Kh&n's
brother and Ahmad Sult&n against him with a strong force.
The Ghanderi B&j&, being puffed up with vanity on account of
the defeat which Arghun Kh&n had sustained, came out of
Ghanderi with an army of Hindds, and a battle took place near
a village called P&dahar, in which he likewise defeated Arghdn
Kh&n's brother, together with his troops, and returned victorious
to Ghanderi. After this misfortune, Amir Khalifd received
orders to prepare all the royal equipage. When it was ready.
His Majesty left ^gra in state, and marched steadily in that
direction, having previously despatched Amir Hindti Beg with
6000 gallant horsemen. 'Aliwardt Kh&n Sh&mlu, who was then
in M&lw&, received instructions to join Amir Hindu Beg, for the
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TiCBrKH-I 8AL/KTrK.I AFXGHAKA. 39
porpoae of destroying that infidel. The Bijd of Ohanderl, being
very proud of his success, collected his adherrats from all
quartera, and appointed his nephew to oppose those two valiant
and warlike chieftains« A battle was fought between them on
the banks of the riyer Jumna. In the first attadc, the infidels
behaTed with such extreme yalour, that many of the men of the
army of the King of the World became martyrs. When the
two amirs saw that their soldiers were terrified at the Hind^is,
they retreated, and took refuge in a garden, and the nephew of
Shahrak retired to a garden two koa distant. When the King
was told of the defeat of these two amirSy he marched towards
the enemy. On the amin being informed of the Kings's arrival,
they divided their forces in two on a very dark night, darker
than the heart of an oppressor, fell on the infidels, and took
their revenge. They killed most of the evil-doers, and made
prisoners of the remainder; and so much plunder was taken from
that heathen army, that the King's troops obtained sufficient
to support them for years. His Majesty marched on towards
CSianderi. But when the B&j& heard of the defeat of his brother,
he was confounded, because that profligate wretch was a great
warrior. Not knowing what else to do, he assembled a body of
men, and came to fight the Sult&n. That vanquished one did
not know how difficult it is for a gnat to keep its feet when a
cold boisterous wind is blowing, or for a sparrow to fly against
a hawk. In the very first onset, that dark-faced man was over-
thrown, and his army slaughtered. When the chiefs of the
B&J& had been trampled on by elephants. His Majesty encamped
near Chanderi with much pomp. The warriors of his vanguard,
having already taken the fort, made captives of the connexions
and family of the Bdji, and despatched them to the foot of the
royal throne. His Majesty presented two of the daughters of
the B4ji, whose beauty was unrivalled, who had never been
exposed to the view of man, or to the hot winds, one to Mirz&
K&nr&n, the other to Prince Muhammad Eum&yun, and gave
the others to the mrddrs of his army. Afler which he spent
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40 AHMAD YADGAE.
two months in that place, in country excorsions and hunting, and
then returned to Agra.
In the third year His Majesty proceeded towards Lahore, At
Sirhind he was met by the R&jk of Kahldr, who presented him
seven Mcons and three mans of gold, and was confirmed in
the zaminddri of that place. When the Singes camp reached
Lahore, M{rz& K&mr&n was honoured by admission to the pre-
sence, and he brought the zaminddrs of the country to kiss the
feet of the Conqueror of the World. The King's encampment
was located in the environs of Lahore, and the royal tents were
pitched in the garden of Mirzd £&mrfin, who gave a magnificent
banquet, which lasted three days. At its conclusion the £ing
left the garden, and took up his abode in the fort. The whole
road thither, from the garden to the gate of the city, was lined
by the servants of Sh&hz&da £&mr&n, dressed in silk and
brocade, decked like bridegrooms ; and the troops, with their gay
red and yellow flags, resembling the early spring. Elephants,
adorned with gilded trappings, covered with jewels, were led in
front of the royal cortege. YlThen they entered the city-gate,
money was thrown to the poor and destitute, and a grand enter-
tainment was given in the palace of Sikandar Lodi.
The £ing was pleased with the sights and hunting which the
Panjab afforded, and he therefore remained there for the space
of a year, during which Mirzd Hind&l came from E&bul. He
was admitted to the presence, and treated with marked distinction.
When the cold season was over, Mirz& Hind&l returned to K&bul,
and at the time of his departure he received, as a present from His
Majesty, two elephants, four horses, girdles, and jewelled daggers.
On the fourth day of the month of Bajab, the exalted monarch
set forth on his return to Xgra. When he reached Sirhind, one
of the kdzia of S&m&na complained to him that Mohan Mun-
dahir had attacked his estate (imldk) and burned it, plundered
all his property, and slain his son. His Majesty, the Con-
queror of the World, appointed ^Ali Kuli Hamad&ni, with three
thousand horse^ to avenge the injury which the Mund&hir had
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TiCRrXH-I SALATIN-I AFAGHANA. 41
done to the petitioner. '*Ali KvM proceeded against the Tillage
of the Mundihire. By chance a marriage was being celebrated
amongst the Mond&hirs, when he approached them with the in-
tention of attacking them. It being winter-time when the King's
troops arriyed there, in the morning, thej were unable to pull
their bows, on account of the severe cold. The Mund&hirs, who
had just risen from warming themselves before fires in their
houses, discharged, such flights of arrows that the soldiers were
unable to withstand them. Many fell, and 'AH KuU was unable to
effect anything on account of the vigilance of the Eanw&rs. The
army retreated into the jangal^ where they collected a quantity
of wood, set fire to it, and relieved themselves from the rigour of
the weather ; after which, they again assaulted the village, but
were again repulsed.
When information of this was conveyed to the King, he sent
Tarsam Bah&dur and Naurang Beg, with 6000 cavalry and
many elephants. They reached that place one night, when the
Mund&hirs were celebrating another marriage, and enjoying
themselves. Towards morning the army was divided into three
portions : one was sent to the west, and ordered to show itself.
When the Mund&hirs, proud of the defeat which 'AH Kuli had
sustained, came forward to the attack, according to instructions
received, the Boyalist troops turned their backs and fled, followed
by the Kanw&rs, until they arrived at the distance of one kos
from the village. Tarsam Bah&dur took advantage of this
opportunity to attack and set fire to the village, and put all
the inhabitants to death. When the Mund&hirs perceived the
flames, they ran towards their homes, but were intercepted on
their road and attacked by the BoyaHsts, sword in hand. Nearly
a thousand of them were killed, and a thousand men, women, and
children taken prisoners. The slaughter was great, and there was
a heap of severed heads ; and Mohan was taken alive. An account
of the conquest of the village was sent to the Sh&h. The village
had been fully inhabited for no less than 160 years in ih^pargana
of Kaithal; but was then made, and still continues to be, a
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42 AHMAD YADOAB.
desert, and has never been inhabited again, although 160 years '
have elapsed since its destniction. When the prisoners were
brought to Dehli, all the women were given to the Mughals.
The oflfending Mund&hir was buried in the earth up to his waist,
and then pierced to death with arrows.'
Such was the respect for the army which this produced
amongst the people of SEind, that thenceforth no one ventored
either to rebel or disobey. After this His Majesty passed two
months in hunting and other amusements in the neighbourhood
of Debit. He then turned his fitce towards ^gra, and sent
Prince Muhammad Hum&ydn, with a large force, into the sitba
of Sambhal, and declared him his successor. The following was
the cause of his selection. One evening the King was in his cups,
and summoned Muhammad Hum&yun. When that offspring of
the royal tree came into the presence, His Majesty, overpowered
by the wine, had fallen asleep on his pillow. The Sh&hz&da
remained there standing, motionless, with his hands joined.
When the King awoke from sleep at midnight, he beheld him
standing, and said, "When did you comeP*' He replied,
" When I received your commands.'^ The King then remem-
bered having sent for him, and was much gratified, and said,
" If Grod should grant you the throne and crown, do not put your
brothers to death, but look sharply after them.**^ The Sh&hz&da
bowed down to the ground and acquiesced in all that His Majesty
said, so that, notwithstanding that Mfrzfi 'Ask&ri and Mirzi
Hind&l treated him a hundred times with disrespect, and even
went to war with him, he, nevertheless, when he had vanquished
them, ceased to think of their hostile proceedings. Whenever
they came before him, he treated them with the greatest affection,
and never reminded them of the rancour they displayed towards
him. To be brief, Mirzd Hum&yun was sent with a laige army
into the aiiba of Sambhal.
> [If this be oorrecty the date of the composition of (his work is later than has
been supposed. See wprd, p. 2.]
* It is strange that there should be no mention of this transaction either in the
large histories or the Memoirs of B&bar.
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TiCBrKH-I SALXTTN-I AFAGHANA. 43
Two or three months after this eyeut, it became evident that
His Majestj'^s health fidled him. He was carried to his garden
OD the bank of the riyer, and Amir (Khdilfi) Niz&mu-d din pre-
scribed for him, and also managed the business of the State.
When the King^s sickness increased day by day, and he was
convinced that there was now no hope of life, he determined to
provide the empire with a ruler, and prevent it from falling into
« stranger's hands ; so he confirmed his previous election. His
illness at length became so severe at j^gra, that, in the year
937 H., he departed, by the decree of the Almighty, from this
earth to heaven, and forsook this thorny world of trouble for the
rose*garden of paradise*
The reign of SuUdn lAdaU Sir.
^ After diree days had been devoted to mourning the death of
Isl&m Sh&h, on the fourth, his eldest son, Firoz Sh&h, was placed
upon the throne, and the chiefs and nobles, in compliance with
the will of the deceased monarch, came forward and professed
allegiance. They* distributed a donative of two months' pay
amongst the soldiers, and issued their orders to the governors of
the ^bas. They elected Taj Kh&n Eir&nf to the tcizdrat, and
Kutb Kh&n Ni&z(, equally skilful with his pen and sword,
was nominated bakhshi.
As Firoz Eh&n was but young, being only twelve years old,
and had no experience in matters of government, T&j Kh&n
issued whatever orders he chose to the nobles, but he was well-
affected to the interests of the state and of his pageant master.
Nevertheless, some disaffected nobles did not approve of this
arrangement, and afier consulting together, represented to Bibi
B&i, the mother of Firoz Eh&n, that T&j Eh&n was a seditious
intriguing person, and though he had been raised to high power
by Isl&m Sh&h, and was admitted to his intimate friendship, yet
> [Traiislftted bj Sir H. Elliot]
* The tena might also apply to the King, but it seenu meant for the nobles by the
context.
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44 AHMAD TADGAB.
that monarch did not centre all power in him. You have now
constituted him absolute minister, and he, already contemplating
the acquisition of supreme power, has summoned his brethren,
and intends to remove this child from the throne and occupy it
himself/' She inquired of them what she ought to do. They
replied, *^ Send him to the Ma of M&lw&, to supply the place of
Shuj&' Kh&n.''^ After giving the matter a little reflection, Bibi
B&i sent him to M^lwi, though he was the prop of her son's
empire, and all the other nobles quailed before his presence, and
Isl&m Sh&h on his death-bed had expressly consigned the boy to
his care.
About a month after T&j Kh&n's departure, Mamrez Eh&n ^
her brother, son of Mi&n Niz&m, brother of Sher Sh&h (who had
lived at Bay&na, feigning eccentricity and madness, in order to
escape death or blinding under the late reign), thought this a
good opportunity of offering his congratulations to his nephew,
and, under that pretence, of making away with him and seizing
the crown for himself. With this view, he entered into a secret
correspondence with some of the nobles whom he brought over
to his interests. So after two months,^ he entered Gw&lior with
a large army, and, all covered with dust as he was, went direct
into the presence of Firoz Kh&n, with the intention of seizing
and expelling him. His sister, astonished at seeing him under an
aspect different from that under which she had ever beheld him,
stood between him and her son, and exclaimed, ^* Mamrez Kh&n,
what are you dreaming of P Have you no fear of God before
your eyes, that you seek to extinguish my lamp by the blast of
violence^ and seat me in the dust of oppression P You also have
children. Did I not save you from the hands of Isl&m Sh&h,
and is this the reward I am to receive P "
^ This author always calls him bj this name. All others call him Mnhfrris Kh&n.
' It does not say from what time, bat we may presume the death of Isl&m 6h6h.
According to other authors, this murder occurs within a week (three days being the
general statement) after this erent, and we hear nothing whatever of the ministry of
T&j 1Lh6A Kir&ni, or his transfer to M&lw&, and the whole statement is so entirely
at variance with others, that we must reject it.
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TABIKH-I SAUCirK-I AFX6HANA. 45
But all her cries and remonstrances were of no arail, for the
wretch severed the child^s head from his body, and thus accumu-
lated curses upon himself for erer. After killing Ffroz Kh&n, he
came out again from the palace, and, with the consent of two or
three of the deyilish nobles who were with him,^ seated himself
on the throne. Then were all astonished and perturbed, and a
tumult arose in the city.
'Seyen days after the slaughter of Firoz Eh&n, Mamrez
Eh&n came to the throne. Before he took possession of it, he
caused tents of damask and brocade to be erected in the bdzdr;
after which, be seated himself on the throne and assumed the
title of ^i^dil Sh&h.^ He opened the treasures of Isl&m Sh&h
and Sher Sh&h, and scattered them with an unsparing hand
amongst the people, so that they thought little of the murder of
Firoz Kh&n.^ As there was no member of Sher Sh&h's family
to succeed to the crown, the nobles sided with him, and were
honoured with titles and dignities. When, after two months, he
found that every one was well inclined towards him, he turned
his face towards Ghun&r, where the treasures of Sher Sh&h were.
After conciliating the Kanjurs, he came to Gw&lior, and thence
led an army himself against Sallm Stir, who had rebelled on the
ground of the murder of Firoz Eh&u. When he came into that
neighbourhood, Salim Kh&n, finding himself unable to cope with
1 The WdkCdt'i Mwhtdki says that the great fayourites whom he constituted as
aheolnte at the beginning of bis reign were Babdr Kb&n Sarw&ni, Ibr&him Kh&n
S6r, and Shamsber Kh&n, younger brother of Ehaw6s Eb&n, '* To these three he
distributed the public treasure as well as the whole country/' — MS. p. 143. The
Ti&r(kh-4 Dditdi says Sbamsher Eh&n and Daulat Kb&n Loh&nl were appointed to
the wizdrat (MS., p. 357). Others mention only the former name.
* [From this point to the end the translation is Mr. Mackenzie's.]
* The Makhum»i Afghdni says this name was changed to 'Adalf, which Dom says
signifies * foolish.' In one MS. of the work it is said the name was changed into
U^adaiy unjust [Firisbta's version of the nick-name is different. He says it was
the Hindi audhali, * blind.'] The Wdk^dt-i Mmhtdkl (MS. p. 142) says he was
raised to the throne with the title of Sult&n Mahmtfd.
« One instance of this folly is recorded in the MakhMan-i Afghdni and THrikK-i
Ddiidi and other works. He used to scatter, amongst other donations, certain em-
blematic tokens, worth 500 tankaa each, which were paid, on presentation, to the
fDrtmiate holdexa into whose houses they had Men.
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46 AHMAD YADQXR.
him, fled to the hill conntiyy and was pursued by a laige anny
sent after him by 'A!dil Sh&h.
After remaining a month in that place, he despatched an army
against the B4j4 of Andrfin. When he arrived in his eoantry,
the B&J& went to the fort of Eisht, at the £>ot of which he
caused outworks to be erected, which he gare in charge to his
chie&. The Hindus made use of 'arddas and mat^aniks^ and
placed large cannon on the bastions of the fort, and kept up such
constant Tolleys of stones, that a bird would have found it im-
possible to flypast. TheAfgh&ns also prepared trenches and
batteries and made war; but by no means could they contrive to
gain the victory, and they lost many of their men. They cast
fiery missiles {hukkahd-i dtiah) into the fort ; while from the inside
of the castle the defenders threw bags of cotton steeped in oil
and set on fire. By this means many men were burned on both
sides, and ^j^dil Sh&h was much distressed at the state of his
prospects. He lost men daily during a whole month. At length,
one nighty he beheld in a dream a venerable man of brilliant
countenance, who said to him, ''You will conquer this fort if
you do one thing.^ 'Adil Sh&h said, *^ Darweshea take more
interest in the condition of Isl&m than kings do ; you ought not
to withhold your prayers from the army of the faithftd, because
the Musulm&ns are sorely distressed in this afiair. If I return
without gaining the victory, I shall destroy the royal name ; and
if I endeavour to obtain possession of the fort, many Musulm&ns
will fitU: for this reason my soul is immersed in the river of
anxiety.^' The darwesh replied, " There is a shopkeeper in your
army whose name is Zankd, who has a daughter, the splendour
of whose beauty exceeds that of the sun, and whose ^e puts the
roses of the garden to shame ; the locks of her hair ai*e lovelier
than the hyacinth : buy her from her father for whatever sum he
may ask, dress her in costly garments, deck her with jewels, and
send her on horseback in the direction of the desert before the
rose of the sun has risen from ' the garden of the east. After
which, make ready your army, and attack the fort on all sides.
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TABIEH-I SALilCTrK.I AFAGHANA. 47
T^th the blessing of Gh>d, you will be yictorioiis.^^ After he had
said this, the King awoke. In the morning he summoned his
confidential ehiefe into his private apartment, and related the
dream to them, and made inquiries after the shopkeeper. The
kaiwdi searched for him, and brought him to the foot of
the throne. Thej satisfied him with presents and money, and
received his daughter, whom they dressed in fine clothes and
jewels, and sent off to the desert at the time indicated by the
darwesA. She had scarcely reached the distance of a bow-shot,
when a rosy-cheeked young man, whose beard had not yet begun
to grow, came firom the opposite direction ; he had a gilt saddle
and jewelled trappings, and rode a cream-coloured horse, and
had a gold-worked quiver &stened to his waist, with a tiger's
tail hanging firom it, with a regal cap set jauntily on his
head, and plumes firom the wings of the H-murgh. That fi^ir
girl made him a saldm^ and they both took the road of
the desert. The men who accompanied the lady were con-
fbnnded at the wonderful and mysterious occurrence which they
had witnessed, and were still further astounded, when, in the
twinkling of an eye, they both disappeared from their sight.
Upon this, they returned, and told what had happened to ^^dil
Sh&h, and the wise men of the age who were there present were
wonder-struck.
Proclamation was made by beat of drum, that the soldiers
should prepare for battle. They advanced against the fort. By
the decree of the Most Mighty, such dread had taken possession
of the defenders, that they sent a message to the effect, that,
** If D&ud Kh&n would bring a written promise of mercy from
the King, the Bajd would give up the fort to His Majesty^s
troops, and come to pay his respects.^ D4tid Kh&n sent this
message to '^dil Sh&h, who was much astonished, and said,
**0 Diud Kh4n, I was put to great annoyance by this fort,
because so many of the fi^ithful had fallen and were falling. I
could not gain possession of it. I therefore felt inclined to leave
it, and return to Gw&lior ; but now I have proved the truth of the
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48 AHMAD TADGAR.
promises of a danvesh. Thank God, he has not misled me. Go
and give them mj written promise of mercy/' D4ud Eh&n did
as he was directed. The B&j4 came into the presence with his
tarban suspended firom his neck, and the fort was vacated.
Mach treasure and many fine elephants and horses were pre-
sented to 'j^dil Sh&h. The King gave the fort into D4ud Kh&n's
charge, and returned thence victorious to Gw&Iior.
When he had reigned two years, and his authority was firmly
established, he began to treat the nobles with severity. There
was a man named Himun, who was a weighman in the bdzdr^
who had found means to approach the King on different affairs,
and in whom he daily reposed more and more confidence. By
degrees he became very powerful and influential, so that he
managed the business of the State. About this time, Junaid
Kh&n, the son of Ahmad Khan, who was governor of Baydna, and
his son, the faujddr of Ajmir, rebelled in Ajmir, plundering and
spoiling certain parganas of that province, making prisoners of
the women and children, and gaining much booty, which he gave
to his men. By all which he succeeded in collecting a large
force, the motions of which he directed with great expertneaa
and address.
'^dil Sh4h had at this time gone to Chun&r ; Jam&l Kh&n,
who was in Gw&lior, assembled a force and went out against him
with seventeen elephants in his train. A battle was fought at
Kanul4pdr, near Lad4nah. The fighting was severe. Junaid
Khan overcame Jam41 Kh&n at the first onset, and slew many of
his best men. He also obtained much plunder, horses, elephants,
etc. When this news reached the King, he was greatly distressed.
Himun said, " 0 Lord of the World, if you will trust me with a
small force, I will either overcome Junaid Kh&n, or perish in the
attempt.^ '^dil Sh&h at first objected to this, on account of the
meanness of his origin, but at length he yielded to his solicita-
tions, and sent him with 3000 or 4000 horse and four elephants.
He set off, and Junaid Kh&n, vain of his victory over Jamd
Kh&n, took no notice of him, saying, *^ My grooms will knock
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TARIKH-I SALATIN-I AFXGHANA. 49
out hia brains with the pegs to which their horses are fastened/'
He then ordered Daalat Kh&n, who was the superintendent of
hia stable, to proceed against him with a large army, and enjoined
him not to kill Himun, but to bring him alive into the presence.
He gaye him leave to depart, and himself went to hunt tigers.
How veiy reprehensible is arrogance !
Daalat Eh&u went, after making all his arrangements, and
towards the close of day found himself within a ioB of Himun's
army. He sent some boastful and foolish messages to Himun,
saying, " 0 shopkeeper, why do you meddle with war P Return
to your scales and weights." Himun sent no answer, but
allowed him to remain in his fancied security. When night
came, he called the Afghans, and said, *' Junaid Kh&n, in the
first place, defeated our troops, and is vain-glorious on that
account; to-morrow, if you behave valiantly, we have every
hope of gaining the victory, and you will be praised and
honoured by His Majesty.'*^ The Afgh&ns, on hearing this,
declared their intention of doing their best in the battle which
was about to ensue, saying, that '* Victory was in the hands of
God." When the light of the sun parted the curtain of dark-
ness, the brave men of both parties mixed together. Providence
decreed success to the banners of ^Adil Sh&h. Daulat Kh&n was
slain, and his army put to flight. Himdn pursued them for two
ho9^ and put many to death ; a portion of them only managed
by a thousand devices to save their lives from the swords of the
royal troops.
When Junaid Khan was informed of this, his head, which he
had lifted to the heavens, was brought low. He ordered his
troops to prepare for action, and marched with the intention of
fighting. Towards night he arrived close to the army of ^iidil
Sh&h, and encamped. After counting his troops, he found that
he had with him 8000 cavalry and 3000 foot, whom he had
assembled from different quarters, together with ten war-
elephants and a numerous artillery. During the night he
endeavoured to inftise spirit into his men.
VOL v. 4
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50 AHMAD TADOAR.
When Himdn saw the large force of the enemy he was dis-
turbed, because he had only brought 3000 horsemen with him,
and many of his men were wounded. He came to the conclusion
that he could not cope with the foe by day. He said, " If you,
who are warriors, are of this opinion, which has firm possession
of me, we may hope for success.*" All the Afghans said, "Tour
opinion is ours." Himun said, *^ I advise a night attack to be
made on their army, let what may happen." He then picked
out one body of 2500 horsemen, and kept 1000 himself,^ with
the intention of attacking the enemy from two different quarters,
with kettle-drums sounding, during the last watch of the night,
and putting them all to the sword.
With this view he prepared his men for the attack. The
enemy remained on the alert during three watches of the night ;
but in the last watch they grew negligent, and fell asleep. When
they were overpowered by drowsiness, the soldiers of '^dil Shah
fell furiously on them on all sides, and awoke them with the
sound of drums and trumpets. Himun did not give them time
to put on their armour, and the Afgh&ns, sword in hand, passed
through their army, slaughtering all they met, and many also
fell by the hands of their comrades. They took to flight, and
suffered severe loss from His Majesty^s troops.
When Junaid Kh&n saw that he was unsuccessful, he thought
himself lucky in being able to save his life, and fled alone to the
desert ; all who were not cut to pieces also saved themselves by
flight. The spoil which this victory granted by the Almighty
yielded, amounted to 200 camels, with daggers and swords in-
numerable. A portion of this was given to the army as a reward
for its valour, the remainder was forwarded to 'A^dil Sh&h.
Himun despatched an account of the victory to His Majesty two
days before he set forth himself. He then went to Court, taking
the plunder with him, and gave a detailed account of the war
and of his victories, and showed the articles of booty one by one
^ Something here defectiye in the arithmetic. He hafl just stated there were only
8000 men in all, and of these many wero disabled.
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TXRIKH-I BALATTK-I APAGHANA. 51
to the King. He then stood with folded hands in front of the
throne, '^dil Shfih honoured him with a purple khiVat^ the
collar and skirt of which were covered with jewels. Himtin said,
*^ I am a miserable shopkeeper, and can of myself do nothing.
To Your Majesty's good fortune this success is due. But the
swords and brarery of these soldiers are the means. Your Majesty
should first recompense them." The King praised this speech,
and rewarded all those who had distinguished themselyes in the
field, by giving them high mamaU and splendid dresses of
honour.
On account of this war, Himdn^s power increased greatly.
One day, at the time at which the King was in the habit of
quitting his private apartments, the nobles were seated in the
Darbdr'i *dmm^ ajid Jdgirs were being distributed. Ibr&h{m Khdn,
who had married ^i([dil Sh&h's sister, entered, and all the a7)iir8
rose to salute him, with the exception of T&j Khan, one of the
chief nobles as well as warriors, who remsuned sitting in his
place. Ibr&him Kh4n was vexed at this, and became inimically
disposed towards T&j Kh&n. Some days after this, T&j Khdn
went to pay his respects to 'i([dil Sh&h. The day was very
cloudy, and he was assaulted by an Afgh&n, named Nizdm
Eh&n, in the doorway of the audience chamber, which was itself
a dark place, independent of the darkness which the clouds
occasioned. He was, however, only slightly wounded. Tdj
Kh&n attributed this attempt to Ibr&him and "^dil Sh&h. When,
after a week or so, his wounds were healed, he made ready his
adherents, and advanced from Gw&liorinthe direction of Bengal.
Information of this was soon conveyed to '^dil Shdh, who sent
a large force to pursue him, and much fighting took place. T&j
Kh&n forced his way, sword in hand, and the royal troops
returned. After this, Taj Kh&n went t.o Ahmad Kh&n, who
was governor of Jaunpdr, and a relation of his. ''Xdil Shah
sent sk/armdn^ enjoining him to induce T&j Kh&n to come back,
seeing that the cause of his displeasure did not originate with
the King, but was entirely owing to his enemies. Ahmad Kh&n
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62 AHMAD TADGAR.
did all he conld to persuade Taj Kh&n, who, however, would not
listen to him.^
''j^dil Shiih's suspicions caused divers of the nobles to be
inimical to him. He put Daulat Kh&n Jalw&ni and Firoz Kh&n
Kdkar to death, and pulled up the root of his empire with his
own hands by killing these two amirs^ who were the pillars of
his monarchy. He then began to entertain evil intentions
towards Nasib Kh&n Sarwemi, Isma'il Ehdn, AU&h-d&d Eh&n
Miana, and Niz&m Kh&n S&hu-khail, and he became daily
more ill-disposed towards the nobles, '^dil Sh&h's sister, the
wife of Ibr&him Kh&n, went one day to her brother's house, and
learned from some of the women there, who had long been friends
of hers, that the King was ill-disposed towards her husband, and
meditated some evil design against him. She being very fond of
her husband, was much distressed at this news, left the palace
in a hurry, and went to her own house, where she told what she
had heard to Ibr&him, who, being seized with a panic, fled from
Gw&lior and went to Dehli. When '-4^dil Sh&h was informed of
his departure, he sent a large army in pursuit of him, and a
battle took place near ^gra. The King's forces sustained a total
defeat, and Ibr&him Elh&n marched victorious into Agra.^
Jal&I Kh&n, who was in the province of Sirhind, also joined
Ibr&him Elh&n, and made over to him all the money which had
been collected from the parganaa of that province. Mahmud
Kh&n Pundak, Niz&m Kh&n, and Alif Kh&n likewise allied
themselves with him, so that he mustered about 3000 cavalry.
He caused the khutba to be read and coin to be struck in his
name, and raised the standard of rebellion. Whilst this was
going on, *Adil Sh&h had gone to the treasury of Chun&r; but
when he heard of the insurrection of Ibr&him Kh&n, he marched
^ It is impossible to ascertain tke precise dates of these transactioHs, so mach oon-
fusion, ncgli^noe, and contradiction occor ; bat they seem to be a mere yariation in
the account of T&j Kh&n's secession from the council, when he was defeated at
Chhabramau, the details of which will be found among tiie extracts from the Tdrikh^i
Khdn'Jahun Lodi,
' Ai that time Ibr6him Eh&n's father, Ghazi Kh&n S6r, was goyemor of Bay&na
and ilindiin.
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TARIKH-I SALATTN-I AFAGHANA. 63
to Gw&lior, and released Nasib Eh&n and Allfih-d&d Eli4n, whom
he had imprisoned. He then treated them kindly, gave them
rich pnrple dresses of honour, and 80,000 rupees for their
expenses, and did his best to please them. At the time of their
departure he presented them with an elephant, a girdle and a
dagger, and sent them against Ibr&hlm. These two nobles pro-
ceeded in great state from Gw&lior to Dehli, but they too joined
Ibr&him Kh&n. When 'Adil Sh&h was informed of their joining
the rebels, he lost heart, because these two men of name* bad
sided with his foe.
At thia period, the B&j& of Andardun, seeing the disordered
state of the King's affairs, revolted in Ujjain. 'Adil Shdh
reached Owdlior by uninterrupted marches ; and when the R&j&
was informed of the King's coming, he left his nephew Tar4
Chand with a portion of his army in Ujjain, and advanced him-
self two ko9 from Ujjain with a numerous force to meet the royal
troops. '*Adil Sh&h appointed Niz&m Kh&n Sur and Fath Khan
Sarw&ni to oppose him. They attacked him with their brave
Afgh&ns. At first, the B&j4's valour had such an effect that
some of the best Afghans obtained martyrdom, and the Sult&n's
army were on the point of running away. 'Adil Sh&h possessed
two elephants, in whose powers of travelling he had great confi-
dence, and two fleet steeds, and he determined to fly to Ghun4r
with all the royal jewels in the event of the defeat of Niz4m
Kh4n and Fath Kh4n. Niz4m Kh4n and Fath Khdn had like-
wise resolved to leave the field, as they had lost many men by
the hands of the infidels, and could not hope to do anything
with the few who remained.
Whilst they were thus despairing of their success, it happened
by the blessing of God, that one of the zamhiiraks or swivels of
the royal army was discharged. It struck the Baj4 of Andardun,
who was standing in front of his army, on the head ; his skull
was knocked to pieces, and his brains scattered like the fragments
of a cheese. When the R4j4's men saw this, they all took to
flight. Niz4m Kh4n, seeing that the infidels had suddenly dis-
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64 AHMAD YADGAB.
persed, believed that some unforeseen event had occarred^ and
made a slight attack on them with his remaining troops. The
infidels fled before them, and on advancing they found the B.&J&
of Andarddn lying in the midst of dust and blood. They
returned thanks to God, and sent news of the victory to ''KdiX
Sh&h, and counselled him to come speedily to Ujjain. His
Majesty was astonished at the mysterious dispensations of Provi-
dence, and pursued the fogitives until he reached Ujjain. The
B&j&'s men resisted during three hours, but at last gave way ;
his wives and children were taken prisoners, and such spoil of
horses, camels, elephants, gold, jewels, property, and clothes was
obtained, that the soldiers had wherewithal to support them-
selves for years.
After this victory, '^dil Sh&h paased some time in M&lwd, and
Ibr&him Xh&n at this time availed himself of the opportunity
thus afforded, and extended his authority. Having collected
much money from the different parganas of the provinces, he de-
spatched his emissaries in all directions, and gained the whole
country from Dehli to Boht&s. When 'Adil Sh&h arrived frx>m
M&lw&, and heard of the power and success of Ibr&him Kh4n,
he was distressed. He felt satisfied that it would be necessary to
proceed against him in person, and ordered the necessary prepa^
rations to be made for that purpose.
At this time, Mansur Eh&n, who was a young man of great
courage, and had married the King's younger sister, excited 'Adil
Sh&h's suspicions. He was anxious to hinder him from revolting
like Ibr&him Kh&n, and, therefore, determined either to blind
him with a red-hot bodkin or slay him. His wife was by some
means or other informed of this, and told her husband that ^* she
had learnt in various places that 'Adil Sh&h was desirous of
either putting him to death or blinding him, and that if he
wished to save his life he had better fly." Mansur Kh&n had
suspected this from the first. His wife said, " You have 4000
horse, who are your ancient servants : and I have much gold and
property in. jewels; let us sell it, and obtain adherents. As
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TABrXH-I BAUICTrN-I AFAGHANA. 55
Ibr&him Zh&n foraook this place, and obtained snch extensive
anthority by his coarage, do you also, in like manner, not only
ayoid the chance of destruction, bnt increase yonr possessions/'
Mansur Eh&n listened to the wife's advice, which was given
in the spirit of a man ; and one day, nnder the pretext of
hunting, when informed by his spies that ^i^dil Shah was in his
cups, left Ow&lior (having previously sent off his troops and
baggage), and arrived at Dehli, where he had an interview with
Ibr&lum, who entertained him hospitably for two or three days,
after which he requested Ibr&him to give him charge of the
Panj&b, and merit his gratitude by doing so, since it had pleased
the Most High to make Ibr&hlm a man high in authority, and
the possessor of an extrusive territory. IbriUiim's youthful, over-
bearing pride led him to be displeased at this. Next day,
Mansur Kh&n sent his mother and wife to the wife of Ibrfihim
Khan, and told them to entreat her to persuade Ibr&him Eh&n
to entrust the Panj&b to him. His wife and mother went there,
and said to her ^ sister (the wife of Ibr&him), ^' You are like a
mother to us. God has exalted you, and given you great posses-
sions ; and if through your means the land of the Panj&b be
given by your husband to mine, I shall consider myself your
slave, and my husband will become one of your servants.''
The elder sister consented, and sent them away with a present
of gold and jewels. At bedtime that evening she related what
had happened to her husband. Ibr&him Kh&n's pride again
caused him io refuse to listen to the request, and she, being
vexed, arose and left him. In the morning the wife told her
sister of the denial she had met with. Mansiir was enraged
at this, and determined to have one trial of arms with Ibr&him
Kh&n. He deliberated with his trusty Afgh&ns, and said,
** What is the good of this life to me P If the Most High grants
me success, my situation will be bettered ; at all events, it will
be better to die than remain in this wretched condition.'^
> [Ibr&hSm Eh&n and Ahmad Kh&n (here called Manitir) had each of them
nuDried a sister of 'Adali's.]
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56 AHMAD TADGAE.
As God had decreed that Mansdr Kh&n should be victorions,
all the nobles and Afgh&ns of note joined him, and agreed
with him in everything, so that he mustered 8000 horsemen.
Ibr&him, however, commanded 30,000. Mansur Eh&n made
ready for war, and sent to Ibr&him to say, *^ Great friendship
existed between us ; but you hare forsaken the path of affection,
and it is unworthy of a man to be led away by pride, and forget
the rules of courtesy. Let what will happen, I will come
and essay one trial in arms against you/^ Ibr&him laughed at
this message, and said, ''Why do you seek death beneath the
feet of my elephants P " At last, on Friday, the 7th of Sha'b&n,
a severe action was fought.^ It pleased the Almighty to over-
shadow the banners of Mansur Eh&n, and Ibr&him, being routed,
fled to Sambhal, in spite of his 30,000 cavalry and many
elephants.' His troops deserted him, and came and pledged
their allegiance to Mansur Kh&n, who, after the victory, pro-
strated himself in thanksgiving on the field. He collected the
army, the elephants, horses, treasures, and household property,
etc., and came speedily to Dehli, where he took possession of the
throne, and issued orders for the reading of the khutba and
coining of money in his own name. Ibr&him's overweening
pride caused him to lose all his possessions, and he fled towards
the East.
M anstir !Eh&n assumed the title of Sikandar,' and from that
day [962 A.H. (1554 a.d.)] his prosperity increased.* ^Adil Sh&h
ruled the country from Jaunpur to M&lw&. He endeavoured to
^ At Farra, a town about twenty miles from Agra.
* Other authorities, as the Makhzan-i Afghdni and Tdrikh-i Khdn^Jahdn Lod»,
represent Ibr&him's caTalry at 70,000 men. We are also told that there were no less
than 200 of his officers who occupied tents lined with velret, each haring the priyi-
lege of beating the naubat. — See Briggs' Firishta, toI. iL, p. 147.
s The WdkCdt'% Mushtdkl, the Makhzan^i Afghdni, the JUHkh-i Khdn^ahdn,
Ab6-1 Fazl, and indeed all historians, say Sikandar Eh&n*8 name was Ahmad Eh6n
Sdr ; and we must reject Mansiir Kh&n as incorrect
^ According to Firishta he ascended the throne at Agra in 962 r. He makes him
out to be the nephew of Sher 8h&h, and says that his sister was married to 'AdalL
Our author has just said that ' AdalTs sister was married to him.
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TAETKH-I SALATTN-I AFAGHANA. 67
wrest his conquests from Sikandar, but did not succeed. Sikandar
agreed to own him as his liege lord, and wrote to him, saying,
^^ I am a friend of yours, and will behave like one of the other
nobles. You are my King." In effect, he always treated '-^dil
Sh&h with great consideration.^
At this time, three different khutbas were read in the empire
of Hinddst&n, and money was coined in the names of three
monarchs, when before there had been only one khutha and one
person^s name on the money. The country from -^gra to Malwfi,
and the confines of Jaunptir, owned the soyereignty of ''Xdil
Sh&h ; fit)m Dehli to the smaller Broht&s on the road to K4bul,
it was in the hands of Sh&h Sikandar ; and from the borders of
the hills to the boundaries of Gojar&t, it belonged to Ibr&him
Kh4n.«
When Hum&ydn Sh&h received intelligence of the feeble rule
of 'Adil Sh&h, the dissensions of the nobles, and the partition of
the territories of Hind, he felt persuaded that the discordance
which then existed amongst the Afgh&ns would enable him to
take easy possession of Hindust&n, and he therefore made up
his mind to invade it. But his differences with his brothers,
Mirz& K&niran, 'Askari, and others, who had wrested many of
his territories from him, together with the small number and
unprepared state of his troops, opposed great obstacles. He
wished to go to Mariam Mak&ni, and seek succour and assistance
frovcL her. On a prosperous day, he sent Khw&ja Mu'azzam and
Bairam Kh&n to fetch Mariam Makdni and Prince Akbar, who
went with expedition and brought them. As the winds were
exceedingly hot, Akbar Mirz& spent that time on the borders of
Mahain. From thence King Hum&ydn set off with 200 men,
Bairam Kh&n, Khw&ja Mu^azzam, B&b&-dost Bakhshf, Khwdja
Gh&zi, Muhammad Haidar Akhtabegi, M{rz& Kuli Beg and his
1 TbeT(irl^A-«iMi^ represents Sikandar's opposition as immediately consequent
upon 'Adall's mnrder of Flroz Kb&n. Elpbinstone (toI. ii., p. 166) also says he was
a nephew of Sher Sh&h. The erent he assigns to 961 a.k. (1554 a.d.)
* But he had jnst fled towards the East, and must necessarily have been excluded
from these western possessions.
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58 AHMAD TADGAE.
brothers, Shaikh Ydsuf^ Ibr&him the Lame, and Hasan Kali, all
nobles of note.
[The history of Hum&yun, which fi>llows in the MS., is
copied verbatim from the Tabakat-i Akhari^ as hereafter given
among the Extracts from that work. The following account of
the battle of Sirhind is the only passage in which Ahmad
Y&dg&r differs from the TabdkdtJ]
Battle of Sirhind.
The tents of the Prince Akbar Mirz& had been pitched near
the fort at the Hauz-i Basdl&na. All the Ehdns displayed on this
day great courage and valour, such as it would be impossible to
exceed, and they obtained their desires. Sikandar Siir fled, forsak-
ing everything that appertained to the possession of the empire, and
the victorious troops pursued the enemy, and put many of them to
the sword. Sikandar escaped with a few followers. Two hundred
and fifty elephants, and three hundred and odd horses, treasure,
gold and silver vessels, and all the palace furniture, were cap-
tured. Muhammad Akbar came victorious into His Majesty's
presence, and made the customary congratulations. His Majesty
honoured that lamp of brilliancy with an ornamented khiCai and
a jewelled crown, and made him happy by granting him the high
title of heir-apparent. He also gave him twenty elephants and
100 horses but of the spoil. The mumhi% despatched /arman«
describing the victory in every direction, and they attributed
the success to the skill of the Prince of the World and the
valour of his servants.
Continuation of the reign of IddalL
When intelligence of what had occurred to Hum&yun reached
Chun&r, 'Adil ShAh deliberated with his courtiers, and deter-
mined that, as the Mughal army had lost their king, they must
be disheartened and distressed; that if they were attacked
by a large force, they would fly without fighting, and Dehli
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UKRTER'l SALAXrN-I AFAOHAKA. 69
would easily be taken ; that Sikandar was in the Siw&lik hills
in a state of great want ; and that there was no one snffioientlj
powerfiil to have designs against Dehli. Hlmiin obsenred^ ** If
the King will send Ahmad Ehan Stir, AlUh-dM Eh&n Sarw&ni,
and Banlat Sh&h Eir&ni, with a large army, and some powerfhl
elephants, with me, by the fortune of the King, I will overthrow
the Mughal troops, and gain possession of DehlL There was a
soothsayer in 'i([dil Shfli'^s service, who could interpret the ap-
pearances of the heavens as easily as he could the signs on an
astrolc^cal table. He was extremely skilful in explaining eveiy-
thing that related to the heavenly bodies. The King said to
him, " I am about to send an army against Dehli. You must
therefore pay great attention to the state of the heavens, and
then tell fearlessly what you have learnt before the throne."
The man spent three days in carefully contemplating the stars
and aspects, and then went before the King, and said, ^* This I
have learned from the revolutions of the heavens and the changes
of day and night, — ^that after Hum&yun, his son, who is seated on
the Imperial throne, will be entrusted with the entire government
of Hind, and the rulers of all countries will place their foreheads
in the dust before his throne, and no one will vanquish him.
The land of Hindust4n, from Kandahdr to the sea of the
south, and from Kambh&yit (Oambay) to the sea of Bengal,
will own his sway.'' *XAi\ Sh&h was much dispirited at this
unfiivourable speech. HIradn said, ** O King, the case is thus :
he is now a child ten years old, who has lost his &ther, and the
Mughal army is not yet firmly established. It is easy to root
up a small plant." '^dil Sh&h derived confidence from his
speech, and prepared a powerful force. He sent 7000 horsemen
and twenty war-elephants with Himun ; who went, march by
march, to Gw&lior.
'All Kuli, who was at that place, came against him. The
valour of the Afgh&n troops enabled them to overcome him
in the first attack, and many Mughals fell. 'All Kuli fled,
accompanied by a few followers, and all his property and
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60 AHMAD TADGAR.
valaables fell into the hands of the Afgh&ns. Himdn, rejoiced
at this victory, sent an account of his success, together with
the spoils captured from the Mughals, to '^dil Sh&h, who was
exceedingly pleased when he received it, and looked on this first
piece of good fortune as a proof that he was always destined to
be victorious. He gave a great festival, and sent Himdn
a dress of honour, adorned with jewels and worked with gold
thread, and an elephant, and made him promises of unlimited
favour.
When Himdn learnt the bestowal of these favours, he advanced,
and after he had passed Xgra, rumours reached Dehli of the
coming of *Adil Sh&h's troops. The Chaghatais assembled from
different directions and consulted together. Tardf Muhammad
Kh&n said, '* It appears to me that it would be better to quit
this place and join the Prince, that the never-failing good fortune
of Jal&lu-d din may overshadow us." Abu-1 Ma^ali and the other
Chaghat&i nobles said, " This shows want of heart. The A%hdn
army has not yet arrived, and we have not been vanquished by
their superior force. If we then quit Dehli, what answer shall
we be able to give to-morrow before the throne P '' Tardi Beg
would not, however, agree with them, say what they would, and
separated himself and his army from them. The other nobles
prepared for action.
Himdn encamped in the neighbourhood of Old Dehli^ and set
forth from thence with his army ready for fighting in three
divisions. The nobles of the tribe of Ghaghat&i came forth
from Dehli with their valiant troops, and the blood-drinking
elephants which had fallen into the prosperous hands of King
Humaydn during the war with Sikandar Sdr. Tardi Beg also
came out with his men, and took up his post on the left. Severe
fighting took place. At first the Mughals, careless of life, kept
up a constant fire of arrows, and the hearts of many Afghdns
were pierced through and through by their deadly points. They
were on the point of flying from the field of battle, when Himdn,
seeing that his affairs were getting desperate in that quarter^
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TARfKH-I SALATfN-I AFAGHANA. 61
directed All&h-d&d Eh&n to go to their assistance from the
left. All&h-d&d Eh&n, who was so brave a man that he had
never turned his back to the enemy in any battle, attacked the
Mnghals, and for a short time kept them in check; but they
again fell on him both from the left and right, wounded All&h-d&d
£h&n with their piercing arrows, and scattered his troops as the
wind does the clouds. Tardi fieg did not leave his position to
assist either partyj
When HImun saw that the Mughals were in good spirits, and
the Afgh&ns disheartened, he advanced with his own division of
3000 cavalry, made an onslaught on the Mughals, and routed
them. They were unable to rally, and as they were utterly
defeated^ they took to flight. Himtin pursued them, and slaugh-
tered many. The Afgh&ns did not treat Abu-1 Ma'&li with
great severity, because he had a secret understanding with them.
So much plunder of the Mughal army fell into Himun's hands,
that it was impossible to take an account of it — 160 elephants,
and 1000 horses of Arab breed, and an immense quantity of
property and valuables; — Himun collected all, and kept them
himself: and from obtaining possession of so many things apper-
taining to royalty, he began to entertain ambitious ideas, and say,
'^'^dil Sh&h is helpless. Although he possessed a valiant army,
he could do nothing when Ibr&him and Sikandar rebelled. Now
all his elephants and soldiers are with me." Looking on things
in this light, he distributed all the spoil, with the exception of
the elephants, among the Afgh&ns who accompanied him, and
gained them over to his own side. With their concurrence, he
^ The Tirikh-% DdiuU (MS., p. 374) says lie fled with the speed of tiie wind from
Befalf to Sirhind, where, at the instigation of Bairam Kh&n, he was put to death.
Some authoritieB, as Fiiishta, represent that he gave battle at Dehli, and did not
tj till he was defeated. Fiiishta says that his death was fully justified by the
oondition of the Mughal chiefs, who were prepared to act like the Afgh&n chieftains
of Sher Sh6h, " each considering himself equal to a Kaikob&d and Kaik&tls.'' His
death, nerertheless, was very discreditable to Bairam Kh&n, who took advantage of
Akbar*s absence on a hawking party to execute him, without eren the eeremony of
lf^i>g the King's orden respecting this old and familiar companion of B&har and
Hnm&yAn.
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62 AHMAD YADGAR.
entered Dehli, raised the Imperial canopy over him, and ordered
coin to be struck in his name. He appointed goyemors of his
own, and brought the Dehli territory and the neighbouring
parganoB under his control ; and in order to console the King, he
sent an account of the victory in these words : *^ Your slave, by
the royal fortune, has routed the Mughal army, which was firm as
an iron wall; but I hear that Hum&ydn's son commands a
numerous force, and is advancing against Dehli. For this reason
I have kept the horses and elephants of the Mughals, in order
that I may be able to iace the valiant enemy, and not allow them
to reach Dehli." '^dil Sh&h was comforted by these deceitful
assertions.
When the nobles of the tribe of Ghaghat&{ were defeated, and
the royal troops retired disheartened firom Dehli, news of the
defeat of the chiefe, and of the skill and bravery of the infidel,
reached the high-fortuned and exalted prince. He marched with-
out halting, with Bairam Kh&n, and the remainder of the nobles
who accompanied him during that expedition, to Sirhind, where
he showed great anger against the chiefs. Tardi Beg was punished.
The treasury was opened, and gold distributed, and many people
were enlisted. They then marched towards Dehli. When they
arrived at Th&nesar, a census was taken of the army, which was
found to consist of 26,000 horsemen. Sh&h Bad&gh Eh&n
was sent on ahead with 4000, and directed to keep always
one march in front of His Majesty. A halt of some days'* dura-
tion was made at Th&nesar. One day, during the time when
accounts of Himdn^s vigorous measures were daily arriving,
Bairam Kh&n took the Prince into the presence of the Kutbu-1
Akt&b Saiyid Jal&l Th&nesari, and procured him the honour
of kissing the feet of that most holy individual. When they
were about to depart, they begged him to give them the assist-
ance of his prayers. They said, "This accursed infidel is coming
with an army numerous as ants and locusts ; it is proper that
your holiness should protect the cause of Isl&m.'' The Saiyid
reflected for a short time, and then said to them, '^ Have you not
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TiOEtrEH-I SALAirN-I APXGHAKA. 63
heard what little boys at play say P '' He then disroiased them.
On the morrow they marched to a distance of seven kos from
Karn&l, where they encamped. Himtin, who had taken posses-
sion of the Dehli throne, being informed of the coming of the
Moghal forces, went out with regal pomp from Debli, with the
intention of fighting them. It is related, that when Himdn was
proceeding to Dehli against the nobles of King Hnm&ydn, he
encamped near Old Dehli. The evening preceding the day on
which he expected a battle, he went to the sanctified mausoleum
of the Kutbu-1 Akt&b, His Highness Eutbu-1 Hakk, the pole-
star of religion and piety, and placing the head of entreaty on
the augnst threshold, vowed that if he were destined to conquer
Dehli^ — ^if the throne of Dehli were granted him, and the Mughal
troops put to flight, — ^he would become a Musulm&n on his return
to Dehli, and diffuse the religion of Muhammad. The Almighty
gave him victory. But he peijured himself, and did not become
a Musulm&n, or forsake his heathen prejudices; nay, he even
persecuted the Musulm&us. But at last he saw what he did see.
When he was going to fight on the field of P&nipat, the
night before the battle, he beheld, in a dream, a torrent come
down and carry away the elephant on which he was mounted.
When he was nearly drowned, a Mughal came, cast a chain
round his neck, and drew him out. On awaking, he sent for the
interpreters of dreams, related his to them, and asked them to
explain it. The interpreters, after thinking over the business,
looked at one another, and Himun inferred that there was some-
thing unpleasant in the explanation. He therefore said, ** Banish
fear from your minds, tell what you have discovered.'^ The
interpreters said, '' The torrent which you saw is the Mughal
army, which comes with such force that it carries away you and
the horse on which you are mounted, and the chain signifies the
blood which will flow from your body when you are wounded,
and cover you entirely.^ Himun became fearful, and said, ''The
very reverse of this dream will happen."
On the morrow, when he mounted to proceed to battle, heavy
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64 AHMAD YADGAH.
rain fell, and the best elephant of that infidel, which was of
gigantic size, was struck in two by lightning.^ On account of
this, Himun became very thoughtful, and aware that the good
fortune of the Mughals was in the ascendant, and that the victory
was not for him, he was much terrified at the explanation of
his dream, and set forth unwillingly to the fight. His Highness
Akbar Mirzd had before this reached P&nipat. Himtin had
encamped two koa west of that city. He had with him a force of
40,000 calvary, while the Mughal army did not exceed 20,000
horse and foot.^ The soldiers of both sides had frequent trials
of strength during the space of a week. Three days before the
battle Bairam IShkn gave a great entertainment, and raised a
large audience-tent, adorned with embroidered satin, like the
flower-beds of a garden in the early spring, or Paradise itself.
He spread carpets of various colours, and on them he placed a
golden throne, and caused Prince Akbar Mirzd to sit on it;
after which, the darhdr was opened to the public. The nobles
of the Ghaghat&i tribe were made joyful by the gift of expensive
dresses of honour, and regal presents, and promises of future
favour were likewise made to them. Bairam Kh&n said, ^' This
is the commencement of His Majesty's reign. This infidel has
routed the whole royal army, and is now making preparations
against us. If you do your best in this business, with one heart
and soul, Hindust&n is yours. I place my trust in God. If we
fail in this, you, whose homes are at a distance of 500 Icm^ will
not be able to find an asylum/'
All the nobles placed their heads at the foot of the throne, and
said, '^ If it please the Most High, we will not be found wanting
in the performance of our duty as long so we have breath in
our bodies." After this they said to Ahmad Beg, the madman,
who was unequalled throughout the world in foretelling the
future by what he saw in the blade-bone of a sheep, ^* Tell
1 We have seen (VoL FV., p. 487) that a similar eTent is said to hare preceded the
battle of Amb&la between the Nf&zis and the Imperialists.
> The author has jnst before stated that the caTalry alone mustered 26,000 strong.
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TA£rEH-I SALATrN.I AFAOHANA. 65
US by means of your art who will gain the victory." After
feasting and eating he tried his art, and then, being filled with
joy and gladness, said, ^^ The victory is on our side, but one chief
of rank will obtain martyrdom during the fight/'
At length, after two or three days, Himtin, having made
ready for action, came out into the plain, and seated himself in
a hawda on an elephant, in order that he might be able to over-
look and superintend his troops. He also caused the golden
standards to be displayed. Bairam Eh&n also drew up the
people of Ghaghat&i to the right and left in battle array. Sh&h
Bad&gh Khfin and Sh&h Abii-1 Ma'&li, with 6000, passed to the
left of P&nipat, and came to the rear of the armies. Bairam
Eh&n placed Akbar Mirz&'s own private tent in an elevated
position, and left 3000 horse to guard him. He then placed
his reliance in Him in whose hands all human afiairs are, and
on whom victory depends, and turned his attention to the battle.
Himun was excessively arrogant on account of his troops
and elephants. He advanced, foaght, and routed the Mughals,
whose heads lay in heaps, and whose blood flowed in streams.
He thus at first vanquished the Mughal army; but as the
brilliancy of the star of Prince Akbar's fortune was not destined
to be diminished, it chanced that, by the decree of the Almighty,
an arrow struck Himun in the forehead. He told his elephant
driver to take the elephant out of the field of battle. When
the Afgh&ns saw that the animal was retreating, they believed
that Himun was flying ; but on approaching him they saw how
matters stood, and as no benefit is ever derived from disloyalty
he sustained a complete defeat. Sh&h Abii-l Ma'&li, however,
one of the chief nobles, obtained martyrdom on that day.
When Sh4h Kuli Beg was told of what had occurred, he came
up to the elephant, and brought it into the presence of Bairam
Kh&n. Bairam Kh&n, after prostrating himself, and returning
thanks, caused Himun to descend from the elephant,* after which
he bound his hands, and took him before the young and fortunate
Prince, and said, "As this is our first success, let Your Highness's
TOL. T. 5
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66 AHMAD YADOAB.
own august hand smite this infidel with the sword/' The
Prince, accordingly, struck him, and divided his head from his
unclean body (Nov. 6, a.d. 1556).^
(Muhammad Sh&h ^^dil was slain in the year 964 a.h.,* in
an action with Khizr Kh&n, the son of Muhammad Eh&n
Gauria. His body, which was not yet quite dead, was, at his
conqueror's command, fastened to the foot of an elephant, and
dragged about. His miserable reign lasted about three years.)
1 Here Ahmad Yadg6r conclades Mb history, and, with characteristic negligence,
omits to mention a word ahont the fate of ' Adali, upon whose reign he has just heen
engaged. The Tdrikh'i I>ditdi and many other histories say the young Prince
declined to commit this wanton act of hrutality, and his suhseqnent actions render
this highly probahle. Firishta says, that at Bairam Kh&n's importunity, he merely
touched the head of the captiye with the sword, by which he became entitled to the
appellation of *< Ohdzi.**
s The Tdrikh'i Bdddi (MS. p. 377) says 968 h.
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67
XXXV.
MAKHZAN-I AVQRXHt
AMD
T^BrKH-I KKflfN-JABL^N LODf,
OP
NFAMATU-LLA.
[The MakAzan-i Afghani and the TdHkA-i Khdn-Jahdn Lodi
are frequently mentioned and referred to as separate works, but
they are essentially one and the same. The Tdrikh contains,
in addition, a memoir of Kh&n-Jah&n Lodi,^ from which the
book takes it name, and it also gives a meagre history of the life
of Jah&ngir ; but in other respects it may be considered as only a
revised yersion of the Makhzan. It is fuller than the latter in
some parts, especially in the lives of the saints, but still the
notes in the following Extracts will show that, although it is
generally better, it is occasionally inferior to the Makhzan.
The author of the work was Ni'amatu-lla, who held the office
of fpokC-natois or historiographer at the Court of Jah&ngir ; and
he teUs us that his father, Khw&ja Habibu-Ua, of Hir&t, passed
thirty-fire years in the service of Akbar. But Ni'amatu-lla,
though he had the chief hand in the work, was assisted or
perhaps even directed by Haibat Kh&n, of S&m&na. Ni'amatu-
11a, after stating in the preface to the Makhzan^ that he under-
took the work in the year 1018, '' at the command of Nawab
' The Nawkb EhCoi-Jah&ii Lodi, one of the most illnstrious generals of Jah&ngir.
He rebelled in the reign of Sh&h Jah&n, and was slain by the Imperial troops, a.d.
1631.— See VoL lY. of this work, p. 637, and Blochmann's Ait^i Akbari, p. 502.
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68 NI'AMATU.LLA.
Kh&n-Jah&n Lodi/' goes on to say that, *^ supported by the
amiable kindness of Haibat Kh&n bin Sallm Eh&n of S&mana,
one of Kh&n-Jah&n's attendants, who collected and arranged the
scattered and confused genealogy of the Afgh&ns," he wrote the
'^ history in accordance with the labours and researches of the
said Haibat Kh4n/' At the end of the MS. of the Tdrikh-i Khan-
Jahdn Lodi^ Ni'amatu-Ua informs us that he finished the work
at the city of Burh&npur^ and a few lines later it is stated that
'* there remain some words to be added on the genealogy of the
most humble and most abject of slaves, Haibat Khan, who is
occupied in writing and verifying this work.**' The pedigree and
history of his family are then related at some length. The terms
of humility accompanying the name indicate that they were
written by Haibat Kh&n himself. The authorship of the work is
thus distinctly asserted both by Ni'amatu-lla and Haibat Kh&n ;
and strange to say, there has appeared to be yet another claimant.
At the end of the second or Historical part of the Makhzan, there
is found in the various MSS. the following passage, which the
Editor of this work translates afresh, as Dom's version is not
satisfiictory : " The original author of this Tdrikh-i Sher Shdhi is
'Abb&s Sarw4ni.^ But as this work is deficient in some parti-
culars, such as the affairs of B&z Bah&dur, the memoirs of the
Kiranis and Lohdnis, and in some other matters, the history was
incomplete. So in these days the humble servant Ibrahim Batni
has made extracts from the Tdrikh-i Nizdmiy which also con-
tains the history of Sher Shah and Isl4m Sh4h, and he has
selected sundry matters from the Makhzan-i Afghani^ written by
Ki'amatu-Ua, and having introduced them into this history, has
made it complete.''^ These words are evidently applicable to
some amended version of the Tdrikh-i Sher ShdM^ not, as Dorn
supjosed, to the Makhzan-i Afghdni; for the most bare- faced
I Doni'^ rendering is, " The original of this history is the TArUeh-i Sher Shdhi, of
•Al)1.8i> 8 awknf ;" but the Persian words are
— -j^ S^^JLT* L/*W L5^^ ji:^ f^J^ (ji' <J^^ t-£i*fl*«
111 : h • I • words, musanmf-i asl, are commonly used for ''ao original author."
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MBTKH-I KHAN JAHiCN LODf. 69
plagiarist and book-maker wonld hardly assert that he had
improved and completed a work hj adding to it selections from
its own pages. It is curious to find such an entry in all the
known MSS. of the Mdkhzan ; for the only way of accounting
fi>r it is by supposing that it was inserted by mistake in the
Makhzafiy instead of the work for which it was intended ; and
if this be so, all the known MSS. of the work must have been
derived from the copy in which the &lse entry was made.
The work begins with Adam, and professes to trace the origin
of the Afghdns ; but says Sir H. Elliot, ^* Nothing can be more
meagre than the whole of the introductory book about the
settlement of the Afgh&ns in Ohor. It is nothing but a
rifacdamento of the childish Muhammadan stories of the Creation
and of the prophets, especially Israel and Saul, all of which,
as well as the early Muhammadan history, is taken from the
commonest sources, without a single independent statement to
encourage the least notion of correctness, research, novelty or
probability. The Tdrikh-i Khdn-Jahdn Lodi is nearly verbatim
the same, and offers no differences of the least consequence. As
a history of the early days of the Afgh&ns, it is utterly untrust-
worthy, and should by no means be considered as the basis of the
annals of a nation of which we remain as ignorant as if the work
had never been written." The following Extracts are taken from
the second or Historical part of the work. The third part con-
tains memoirs of sixty-eight Afgh&n saints.
The second book is valuable as the work of one who lived near
Ihe times of which he writes, and had a special interest in the
subject. The work was finished in the year 1021 h. (1612 a.d.).
Dom observes, ^^ Ni'amatu-Ua was contemporary with Firishta,
and commenced the history of the Afgh&ns in the same year
when Firishta finished his work ; but he is nowhere mentioned.
The identity of the sources they used in compiling their respec-
tive works is evident, from the extreme, often verbal coincidence
of the style and thread of the history of the reigns of the Lodi
nMse and the family of Sher Sh&h.
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70 NI'AMATU-LLA.
The following is Sir H. Elliot's analysis of the MS:— "In
the history of Sher Shah the Tdrikh-i EJidti-Jahdn Lodi is of
about the same length as the Makhzan-i Afghani, The only
additions are two long eulogies of Khaw&s Kh&n and H&ji
Kh&n, and some of the regulations of Sher Sh&h, which are
added at the end of the reign. It follows the same order as
tlie Makhzan, but yaries from it considerably, and is altogether
inferior. In this reign he quotes the Tdrikh-i Sher Shdhi,
Tdrikh-i Nizdmi^ Madan-i Akbar, and Akbar-ndma^ and appears
to be in doubt as to which should be followed, for he is con-
tradictory in some parts. The history of Isl&m Sh&h follows,
or exactly resembles, DdMi^ and is not in the least like the
Makhzan. The reign of 'Adali is identically the same as the
Makhzan; so are the notices of Shuj&wal, B&z Bah&dur, and
T&j and 'Im&d Kirdni. On the subsequent periods of Afgh&n
dominion in the East the history is brought lower down, and
gives an account of D&ud of Bengal, and a full history of the
proceedings to the year 1021. The account of the saints does not
occupy quite the same position. It is pretty nearly verbatim
the same ; but some lives differ, as Ehw&ja Yahya K&bu, which
is longer. While some of the Makhzan has been omitted, other
matter equally absurd and childish has been introduced. Almost
all the additions given by Dom, from Dr. Lees' copy, in his
notes, are to be found in my copy, and show that the two are
identical. Both contain the life of Jah&ngir. *
*^ The Makhzan-% Afghani has been well and faithfully translated
by Dom ; and in my translations I have almost copied verbatim
from him."
The author mentions in his Preface the following authors who
"have written books lately on tlie history of Sult&n Bahlol
Lodi," viz. Khw&ja Niz&rau-d din Ahmad, in the Tdrikh-i
Nizdmi; Shaikh 'Abb&s Sarw&ni, in the Tdrikh-i Sher Shdhi;
Maul&n& Musht&ki, in his Tdrikh (called the WdkVdUi Mush-
tdki) ; Maul&n& Mahmud bin Ibr&him K&lw&ni, in the history
of Sultan Ibrdhim, and named Ibrdhim Shdhi.
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TABTKH-I KHAN JAHAN LODT. 71
The Extracts relating to the reign of Sult&n Bahlol were
translated hj *^ Ensign " Charles F. Mackenzie ; the others are
from the pen of Sir H. M. Elliot himself.
These works, relating to the Afgh&n dynasties, come a little
out of their chronological order; but it was not desirable to post-
pone them to the reign of Akbar for the mere sake of maintaining
the chronological sequence of the authors.]
EXTBACTS.
The reign of Sultdn Bahlol.
It is* narrated by the author of the Tdrikh-i Ibrahim Shdhi,
and by the historian Niz&mi, that Malik Bahlol Lodi was the
nephew of Sult&n Sh&h Lodi, who bore the title of Isl&m Eh&n
during the time of Sult&n Mub&rak Sh&h and -Saiyid Khizr
Eh&n, and was one of the grandees of that period. He held the
pargana of Sirhind in jdgir^ and governed the neighbouring dis-
tricts. [Malik Bahlol, son of Malik K&Ia, was his full nephew,
and] when he perceived that his nephew possessed discernment
and good sense, he treated him as his son, and constituted him
his successor [and caused his own turban to be bound on his
nephew'^s head.] ^ After the decease of Isl&m £h&n, Bahlol
became governor of Sirhind, and established his authority firmly.
Kutb EJi&n, the son of Isl&m Kh&n, declining to acknowledge
the authority of Bahlol, went to Sult&n Muhammad, who was
then King of Dehli, and complained against Malik Bahlol. In
consequence of his representations, His&m Kh&n, who was called
H&ji Shudani, one of the dependents of the Saiyid dynasty of
Dehli, who had attained the rank of a noble, was despatched
by Sult&n Muhammad with a numerous army against Malik
Bahlol.' Both parties met near the village of Karra, in the
pargana of Khizr&b&d| and a fierce battle took place. His&m
1 [These tentenoes are fuppUed from the MSS. of the Makkzan-i Jfyhdni.]
* [The MSS. of the Makhzan-i Afghdni read, " These complaints raised the anger
of Snlt&n Mohammad, and accordingly he sent H6j( Shudani, whom he had exalted
by the title of His&m Eh&n, along with several other amirt^ to Sirhind against
Malik Bahlol.*']
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72 NrAMATU-LLA.
Kh&n, being defeated, retreated to Dehli, whilst Malik BahloFs
power and authority were greatly increased.
It is related, that daring the time he was with his uncle Isldm
Eh&n, he went once to S&m&na for the purpose of transacting
some urgent and important business, taking with him two of
his intimate friends, and hearing that there was a holy man
named Saiyid ibn Mdjzub in that place, who made predictions
(sdhib i lafz biid)y^ Malik Bahlol went to see that danoeah^
accompanied by his two friends, and, after having treated him
with every courtesy, sat down. That person, who was ab-
stracted from worldly thoughts, asked, ^\ if any one of them was
able to buy the kingdom of Dehli from him for 2000 tankasr
Malik Bahlol had 1300 tankaa in his purse, which he took out
and placed before the saint, and said, " This is all I possess/'' *
That worthy person consented to accept the sum so proffered,
and said, "May the empire of Dehli be fortunate to you!"'
When his two associates began to ridicule his superstition, the
Malik said, " One of two things must happen : if the event be
successful, I shall have made a good bargain; if not, in the
day of judgment there are rewards for good deeds done to
danceshes" It is said in certain histories that Malik Bahlol
traded ;' but the truth or falsehood of this has never been clearly
ascertained. It is known that his grandfather and &ther were
merchants, and were in the habit of visiting Hind.*
Malik Bahlol, after the death of Isl&m Eh&n, gained posses-
sion of the territories of Sirhind [and the Panj&b] * by the
^ [This sentence is from the MSS. of the Makhzan,]
' [This agrees with the MS. of the East India Library, bat Dom, and aU the MSS.
of the Makhzan say that he gave the whole 2000.]
' This IB Tery plainly asserted in the Tdrlkh^i DdUdi. Indeed, we find that his
subsequent fortunes were in a great measure dependent on his success in controlling a
turbulent pargana^ which Saiyid Muhammad, Eiog of Dehli, had assigned to him, in
payment of his bill for horses.
« [The MSS. of the Makhtan-i Afghdni differ slightly. «It is said that Malik
Bahlol traded, but this has not been proved." His ancestors were engaged in trade —
horse-dealing, according to one MS.]
« {MakhKn-i Afghdni.1
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TXBrXH-I KHAN JAHAN LODf. 73
assistance of his other uncle Malik Firoz, the brother of Isl&m
Khan, aided by the whole of his kindred, and strengthened him-
self and established his authority* The speech which Shaikh
ibn Majzub had made to him in his early youth caused him ta
aspire to the throne, and he was desirous of bringing the bird
of empire into his net. After vanquishing His&m Kh&n, Malik
Bahlol wrote a letter to Sult&n Muhammad, complaining of the
inal-administration and depravity of His&m Kh&n, and lauding
his own candour and sincerity. He stated also in it that he
would obey and serve His Majesty, if the tcizdrat were taken
away from H&ji His&m Eh&n,^ and given to Hamid Khan.
Sultdn Muhammad, who was totally inexperienced, believing
what Malik Bahlol said to be true, put his guiltless and faithful
servant H&j( His&m Kh&n to death on the following day, and
raised Hamid Eh&n to the rank of chief minister. Malik Bahlol
and the whole of the Lodis, when they heard this news, came
forward without hesitation, and having paid their respects to the
Sult&n, were confirmed in the possession of their Jdgirs.
After this reconciliation, Malik Bahlol made war, in the
name of Sult&n Muhammad, against Sult&n Mahmud Khilji of
Malwa, [who was ruling over His&r Ffrozah, H&nsi, and N&gor,] *
and overcame him. Upon which the Sult&n ennobled him by
giving him the title of Kh&n-kh&n&n. Thus the Lodis became
gradually more powerful, and possessed themselves by force, with-
out King Muhammad's consent, of Lahore, Dip&Ipur, Sann&m,
His&r Firozah, and various other parganaa^ and paid no atten-
tion to what Sult&n Muhammad wrote to them in remonstrance.
They raised the standards of rebellion, collected a force, and
went against Sult&n Muhammad who was in Dehli, and besieged
that place ; but failing in their attempt^ they returned to Sirhind,
where Malik Bahlol assumed the title of Sult&n, but abstained
> [AU the MSS. ag-roe in stating that he required the death of HiB&m Eh&n.]
* [This sentence is giyen hy Dom, and is in three MSS. of the Makhzan ; hut it is
not in the East India Library MS., and it seems to he wanting in the MS. from
which this translation was made.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
74 NPAMATU-LLA.
from having the khutba read and coinage struck in his name
until Dehl! should fall into his hands.
About this time Sult&u Muhammad died, and the nobles and
chief men of the State placed his son, Sultin 'Al&u-d din, on
the throne. The whole of Hind was divided into provinces
governed by petty rulers {muluk-i tavoHif) j but the Lodis pre-
dominated. Ahmad Kh&n Mew&tti possessed the country from
Mahrauli to Ladhu Sar&i, near the city of Dehli. The Lodis
held the country of Sirhind, Lahore, S&m&na, Sann&m, and
His&r, as far as Panipat.^ Dary& Eh&n Lodi governed the
territory of Sambhal, up to the ferry of Khw&ja E^hizr, which
adjoins Dehli.^ 'tsd Eh&n Turk-bacha held £ol and Jal&Ii.
Kutb Kh&n, the son of Hasan Kh4n the Afgh&n, was governor
of R&pri.' And Rdi Part&b held the towns of Bhuigdnw,
Fatti&H, and Eampil. Bay&na was in the hands of D&dd Kh&n
Auhadi; and Sultdn 'Al&u-d din ruled only in the city of
Dehli, and a few of the neighbouring villages.* There were also
kings in Gujar&t, the Dekhin, M&lwd, Jaunpur, [M&ndu],^
and Beng&l.*
Sult&n Bahlol, collecting an army for the second time, marched
from Sirhind to Dehli ; but as he could not succeed in capturing
the fort of Uehli, he again returned to Sirhind. At this time,
Sult&n 'Al&u-d din consulted Eutb Eh&u Lodi and B&i Part&b,
^ [This agre6B with the East India Library MS., but the others say Pfrnipat,
Lahore, H&nsi, His&r, N&gor, and as far as the confines of Mult&n.]
' l?i*aniata-lla in the Mahhzan mentions the pargana of Lonl as his western
boundary.
s [The Mahhzan adds, «Chand6war and Et&wa."]
^ [The Makhzan adds, *< 'Al&u-d din possessed only Dehli, P&lam, and two or three
other parffanas.*''} The Tdrikh-i Dditdi records a current distich as expressive of
the contempt with which the circumscribed power of the Imperial goTemment was
Tiewed at that time.
7^ empire of the Kinff of the Earth extends from Dehli to JPdlam,
6 [Makhtan.]
8 The Mak/itan adds, that Gw&lior, Dhtllptlr, and Bhad&war had each their own
E&j&s(MS.,p. 76).
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TARnCH-I KHAN JAHAX LODT. 75
on the means of strengthening himself, to vhich they replied,
'' If the Sultdn will degrade Hamid Eh&n from the rank of
lAurir, and imprison him, we will wrest some parganas from the
hands of the nobles, and make them oyer to the exchequer.
Accordingly, Sult&n 'Al&a-d din ordered Hamid Eh&n to be
confined, and then marched from Dehli to Barh&n&b&d, and en-
camped near Amroha. Eutb £h&n, ^tek Eh&n, and Part&b
came there to pay their respects, and promised to make over
forty parganas to the Solt&n, on condition that he would put
Hamid Eh&n to death. Part&b incited the Sult&n to slay
Eamid £h&n, because the E[h&n''s &ther in former days had
plundered his estate and seized his wife. Sult&n 'Al&u*d din,
irho was unfit to govern a kingdom, gave directions, without
thought or reflection, for the execution of Hamid E[h&n, whose
brothers, learning these intentions, managed to liberate him from
confinement, and then fled to Dehli. Malik Muhammad Jam&I,
in whose custody he had been, pursued Hamid Eh&n to his
house and attacked him ; but in the tumult he was killed by a
spear, and many people joined the party of Hamid £h&n. The
tcazir removed the wives, sons, and daughters of the Sult&n,
exposed and bare-headed, out of the fort of Dehli, and then
took possession of the treasures and regalia. Sult&n ^Al&u-d
din's irresolution hindered him from doing anything, and after
patting off his revenge from day to day, he remained in Bad&un
on account of the rainy season. Hamid Kh&n resolved to avail
himself of the opportunity, and to establish another sovereign in
the room of Sult&n 'Al&u-d din ; but as Sult&n Mahmud, King
of Jaunpdr, was connected with Sult&n 'Al&u-d din, and Sult&n
Mahmud, King of M&ndu, was too distant to admit of his
holding communication with him, he did not think proper to
make any determined move. Whilst he was meditating on his
future schemes, Bahlol, having received intelligence of what was
in contemplation, came with his entire army from Sirhind to
Dehli. Hamid Kh&n did not quit his post, as he considered
himself sufficiently strong to prevent Sultfin Bahlol from entering
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76 NFAMATU.LLA,
the city.^ After entering into a convention, Sult&n Bahlol gained
permission to enter the city, and he, in order to meet the neces-
sities of the times, treated Hamfd Xhin with all possible polite-
ness and courtesy, and went daily to visit him, at the same time
always keeping near his own person many Afgh&ns who had
joined him from Roh. His determination was to make himself
king, and turn Hamid £h&n out.
One day Hamid Kh&n gave a grand entertainment, and in-
vited many nobles as his guests. Sult&n Bahlol, who was
one of the party, had instructed his Afgh&ns to behave in a
foolish and indecorous mannner, during Hamid Kh&n's feast,
so that he might look on them as a set of idiots, and ceasing
to regard them with any apprehension, might pay no further
attention to them. When the Afgh&ns went into Hamid Kh&n'*s
presence, they acted in an unusual and strange manner. Some
festened their shoes to their girdles, some placed their shoes in
the recess above Hamid Kh&n's head. Hamid Eh&n inquired
what this meant. They answered, *^ We are taking precautions
against thieves." After a short time the Afgh&us said to
Hamid Kh&n, *'Tour carpet is wonderfully coloured; if you
give us each a blanket from it, we will send it as a rarity to our
native land of Boh, to make caps for our children, that the
inhabitants of the world may know that we are in the service
of Hamid Kh&n, and are treated with much dignity, honour,
and respect." Hamid Kh&n smiled, and said in reply, '' I will
make you presents of the most costly articles for rarities.**^ And
as they were bringing round trays containing perfumes, the
Afgh&ns licked the scent bottles, and ate the flowers. They
opened the leaves which covered the pdn. First they ate the
lime, and when this had heated their mouths, tbey chewed the
pdn afterwards, and in other respects conducted themselves in
an extraordinary manner. Hamid Kh&n asked Malik Bahlol,
•'Why do they act thusP" He replied, "They are a set of
^ These oiroumstances are differently represented in the Tdrikh^i Midi [anti
Vol. IV., p. 435],
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TABIEH-l KHAN JAHXN LODI. 77
clowns^ and have associated but little with men ; they only know
how to eat and die."*^ It became Bahlors custom to bring some
of these men whenever he went to see Hamid Eh&n ; but the
greater portion of his attendants remained standing without.
On one occasion, when Hamid Eh&n was feasting Malik Bahlol,
the Aigh&ns, in obedience to secret instructions received from
Malik Bahlol, beat the door-keepers, and forced their way in,
saying, *^ We are likewise servants of Hamid Kh&n ; why should
we be prevented from coming to salute him P " When a tumult
and disturbance had arisen, Hamid Kh&n asked the reason of it.
They, as they were entering, abused Malik Bahlol, and said to
the minister, '^ We are just as much your servants as he is ; he
comes in, and why should not weP^ When Hamid Kh&u
directed that they should be admitted, the Afgh&ns crowded in,
and two of them placed themselves near every servant of Hamid
£h&n. When the eatiug part of the entei*tainment was over,
and many of Hamid Ehdn'^s men had gone out, Kutb Eh&n
Lodi drew forth a chain from his bosom, and laid it before
Hamid Eh&n, sayiug, ^*The best thing for you will be to
retire fit)m public life for a short time. As I have eaten your
salt, I do not intend to put you to death.^ Afker this he caused
Hamid Eh&n to be seized, and gave him in charge to his
officers.^
Thus Malik Bahlol took possession of Dehli, without
hindrance or opposition ; and on the 17th of the month Babi'u-1
awwal, A.H. 855* (19th April, 1451), at the prosperous moment
and auspicious time which the astrologers learned in the stars,
and experienced Br&hmans had indicated, he seated himself
on the Imperial throne, and ordered the khutba to be read and
coin to be struck in his own name. He assumed the title of
Sult&n Bahlol; and did his best to conciliate the nobles and
> Ahmad T&dg&r gives an account of this transaction in greater detail ; but the
particulan are scarcely worthy of notice. — MS. p. 7.
* So says Ni'amata-Ua and the TdHkh^i Dditdi; but Ahmad Y&dg&r says 27th of
Mnharram. [Fiiishta makes it a year earlier, 854.]
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78 NTAMATTJ.LLA.
soldiery, aad gain the goodwill of great and small, by his
extreme liberality and generosity. He won the people over
to his side, and when he had secured a firm hold on Dehli,
after some days, he wrote to Sult&n 'Al&u-d din, saying,
*' Since I was educated by yoor &ther, and consider myself
as in fact your regent for this country, I will allow the royal
power, which had left your hands, to remain as it was; and
I will not prevent the khutba from being read in your name.*^
Sult&n 'Al&u-d d{n wrote in reply, '' As my father looked on
you as his offspring, I likewise have looked on you as my
elder brother, and have therefore made over the government to
you, and contented myself with Bad&un/'^ Sult&n Bahlol, being
successftil and prosperous, ruled the empire with vigour. He
wrested the parganaa bordering on Dehli from the people who
had usurped them, and took them into his own possession. He
also, in the first year of his reign, went to settle the province of
Mult&n.
Some of Sult&n 'Al&u-d din's nobles, who were dissatisfied
with the government of the Lodis, wrote to Sult&n Mahmdd
of Jaunpur, and summoned him to their assistance. Accord-
ingly, in the year 855,* he advanced from Jaunpur to Dehli,
which place he besieged. Ehw&ja B&yazid, the son of Sult&n
Bahlol, with other nobles, remained there to garrison the
fort.' Sult&n Bahlol,^ on hearing this, left DIp&lpur and came
and encamped in the village of Narela, fifteen kos distant from
Dehli. In spite of all his endeavours to make peace, Sult&n
Mahmud's pride and arrogance prevented an accommodation.
Sult&n Mahmud sent Fath Kh&n Hirwi, with 30,000 horse-
men and 39 elephants, against Sult&n Bahlol. These came
1 [See Vol. lY., p. 86. 'Alan-d din lived quietly at BadkAn till his death in 883,
A.D. 1478.]
s All other anthorities say 866 h.
s The account of this siege of Dehli is given in greater detail among the Extncts
from Ahmad Y&dg&r {fuprd page 2), whose account agrees with that of 'Abdu-Ua
in the Tdrfkh-i DdML
^ [This is in accordance with the MSS., but differs from Dom, whose Texaioii
makes B&yazid come from Dip&lp<ir.]
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TAErKH-I KHAN JAHAN LODI. 79
into action in three divisions. The leading elephant of Fath
Kh&n's army was disabled by Kutb Khkn Lodf, who was an
nnriTalled archer, with a single shot. Darya Kh&n Lodi, who
had joined Sult&n Mahmud, was fighting in the same field.
Kutb Kh&n called out to him with a load voice, ** Yonr mother
and sisters are in the fort ; it is not fit that yon should do battle
for the stranger, and lose sight of the reputation of your fiimily."
Daryd Kh&n said, ** I will leave the field, provided yon do not
fellow me.*" Kutb took an oath that he would not pursue him ;
and thus, on account of Daryd £h&n's retreat, Fath Kh&n's
troops were defeated, and he himself was taken prisoner. Sult&n
Mahmud, being thus foiled, and being unable to effect anything,
retired to Jaunptir.
Solt&n Bahlol then settled himself firmly, and increased his
dominions and authority. He took measures to gain entire
possession of the country; and with this object in view, first
proceeded into Mew&t. Ahmad Eh&n Mew&tti submitted ; upon
which the Sult&n deprived him of seven parganas, but allowed
him to retain the remainder. Ahmad appointed his uncle,
Mubfirak Kh&n^ to be perpetually in attendance at Court. The
Sult&n proceeded from Mew&t to Baran. Dary& Khia Lodi,
governor of Sambhal, also came before His Majesty, to tender
his allegiance and submission, and presented him with seven
parganoB. The Sult&n went thence to Eol, and confirmed 'I'si
Xh&n in the possession of that place on the former terms. When
he reached Burh&n&b&d, Mub&rak Kh&n, governor of Sakit,
came to pay his respects; he was likewise confirmed in the
possession of the districts which he held in jdgir, E&i Part&b,
chief of the zaminddrs in those parts, was also confirmed in
possession of Bhuing&nw. From thence he went to the fort
of B&pri.^ Kutb Kh&n, the son of Husain, who commanded
in B&pri, resisted, but his fort was speedily captured. Kh&n
Jah&n, after making a solemn promise of safe conduct to Kutb
Kh&n, brought him into the King's presence, when he also was
1 ["To E&pri and Chand&war.*'— Jfait^Am.]
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80 NI'AMATU-LLA-
confirmed in hu9 jdglrs. From thence, Sult&n Bahlol went to
Et&wah, the governor of which likewise offered his homage.
At this period Mahmdd Sharki, by the advice of Mallka
Jah&n, who was the chief lady of his harem^ and was related to
Sult&n 'Al&u-d din, again assembled a force, and came against
Sult&n Bahlol, and encamped in the country about Et&wah. On
the first day, both armies engaged in hostilities ; on the second,
Eutb Eh&n and R&i Part&b made amicable arrangements, and
agreed that the whole of the territory which had belonged to
Mub&n&k Sh&h, £ing of Dehli, should be left in the hands
of Sult&n Bahlol, and that which Sult&n Ibr&him, King of
Jaunptir, had held, should be left in the possession of Sult&n
Mahmud; also that seven elephants which had fallen into the
hands of Sult&n Bahlol in the fight with Fath Eh&n should be
given back to Sult&n Mahmtid. Shams&b&d was to be con-
sidered the property of Sult&n Bahlol, and was to be made over to
him by Jun& Kh&n, the agent of Sult&n Mahmud. After this
truce, Sult&n Mahmud returned to Jaunpur, and Sult&n Bahlol
wrote Bk/armdn at the appointed time to Jun& ELh&n, directing
him to leave Shams&b&d, and give it into the hands of B&i
Karan. As Jdii& Eh&n resisted the execution of the order,
Sult&n Bahlol went in person to Shams&b&d, took the fort and
town from Jun& Eh&n and gave them to B&i Earan.
Sult&n Mahmdd, when informed of these transactions, again
went against Sult&n Bahlol, in violation of his solemn engage-
ments. They met face to face at Shams&b&d, and Dary& Eh&n
Lodi and Eutb Eh&n^ made a night attack on the army
of Sultan Mahmdd. By chance, Eutb Eh&n^s horse stumbled,
and he was thrown to the ground and taken prisoner. Sult&n
Mahmud confined him and sent him to Vaunpur, where he
remained captive for seven years. Sult&n Bahlol, leaving
Prince Jal&l Eh&n, Sikandar Eh&n, and 'Im&du-l Mulk in
1 Thifi was Katb Kh&n Lodi, first cousin of Bahlol, and son of Ulkm Eh6n. The
other Euth Kh&n, frequently mentioned in thii rei^ was the son of Huaain Eh&A
Afgh&n, and governor of R&prf on the Jumn&. Doxyk Kh&n was also a first consia
of BaMol^Tdrikh'i Jkiiidi, MS. p. 24.
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TARIKH-I KHAN JAHAN LODr. 81
front of Sult&n Mahmud^s forces, for the purpose of render-
ing assistance to B4i Earan, who was in the fort of Shams-
ib&d, went in person against Sult&n Mahmud. At this time
the Sult&n [Mahmdd] fell sick, and in two or three days the
measure of his age was filled to the brim, and he ceased to exist.
His mother, Bibi B&ji, who was a very wise, clever and ex-
perienced woman, with the assistance of the nobles, seated Prince
Bhikhan Eh&n on the throne of the kingdom, and gave him
the title of Muhammad Sh&h. Certain of the chief nobles and
grandees of the State interposed, and made peace between the
two monarchs, under which it was agreed that the territories of
Sult&n Mahm&d should be ruled by Muhammad Sh&h, and that
those owned formerly by Sult&n ^Al&u-d din should be governed
by Sult&n Bahlol.
After this compact, Muhammad Sh&h retraced his steps to
Jaunpur, and Sult&n Bahlol went towards Dehli. On his arrival
near Dehli, Shams Kh&tun, sister of Eutb Kh&n, and the chief
lady of the Sult&n^s haremy sent to say, that as long as Eutb
Khan remained the prisoner of Sult&n Muhammad Sh&h, it
would be unlawful for the Sult&n to take sleep or repose of any
kind, [adding that she would kill herself].^ This speech made
such an impression on the Sult&n, that he turned back from
Dehli, and set off again against Muhammad Sh&h. When
Muhammad heard this, he set out from Jaunpur, with the view
of meeting Sult&n Bahlol ; and on reaching Shams&b&d, he took
that district away from E&i E[aran, Sult&n Bahlol's governor,
and reinstated J&n& Eh&n. Although R&i Part&b had formerly
been on the side of Sult&n Bahlol, yet he now became alarmed
on account of Muhammad Sh&h's successes, and joined his party.
Muhammad Sh&h reached Surseni by uninterrupted marches.
Sult&n Bahlol encamped in tYiepargana of B.&pri, which adjoined
Surseni, and fighting took place for some days between the
two armies.
Muhammad Sh&h wrote a farmdn to the Eotwdl of Jaunpur,
1 [Makhzan.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
82 NPAMATU-LLA.
ordering him to pat his (the Sh&h's) own brother, Hasan Eh&n,
and Entb Kh&n LodI, who were both detained as prisoners, to
death.^ The Kotwdl represented that Bibi B&ji protected both
of them, and that he had not sufficient authority to kill them.
When Muhammad Sh&h learnt the contents of the reply, he
wrote in a perfidious, plausible and treacherous way to his
mother, saying, ^'My brother, Hasan E3i&n, suffers greatly
in prison; it is proper that you should come here and make
peace between him and me ; after which an estate shall be given
to him.'' Bibi B&ji set forth on receiving the letter; and when
she was some stages on the road, one of Sh&h Muhammad'^s
courtiers put Prince Hasan Kh&n to death by order. This news
reached Bibi B&ji at Eananj. After mourning for Hasan Eh&n
in Kanauj, she declined to enter the presence of Muhammad
Sh&h. When Muhammad Sh&h heard of his mother's return,
he was wroth, and wrote to her, saying, " Why do you
mourn on account of the execution of an individual P All the
princes will meet with a like fate, and then you can mourn for
them all at once ! " The nobles and ministers were in continual
dread of Muhammad Sh&h, for he was of a very ferocious, blood-
thirsty, and passionate disposition.
During these transactions, Husain Eh&n, a younger brother of
Muhammad Sh&h, sent Sult&n Sh&h and Jal&l Kh&n Ajodhani
to inform Muhammad Sh&h that the troops of Sult4n Bahlol
intended to make a night attack ; that 30,000 horsemen and
thirty elephants had been detached for the purpose, and had
taken a position on the banks of the Jhama.* Sult&n Muhammad,?
1 In the TdriJch'i Dd&di (MS. p. 25) they are called two sons of Snlt&n Sh&h, by
name Hasan Eb&n and Eutb Eh&n. The insertion of "Lodi " must be an error,
though his father's name also was Sult&n Sh&h. These princes were eridently of the
Jannptir family, and Sult&n Sh&h himself appears as one of the conspirators against
Muhammad Sh&h. [Still, Kutb Kh&n Lodi was a prisoner in Jaunptir at this time.]
* The Afgh&n histories are not sufficiently explicit on the subject of these moTe-
ments ; but it appears from the Jaunpiir annals, that the conduct of the two brothers
arose from disaffection to Muhammad Sh&h.
s [The original translation and the MS. of the East India Library say, ^ Sult&n
Bahlol," but this clearly wrong. The MSS. of the Makhzan are correct. See also
Bom, p. 49]
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TARrKH-I KHAN JAHAN LODI. 83
on receiTing this news, sent a diyision of his troops to oppose
them. Prince Hnsain Eh&n desired to take his brother Sh4h-
z£da Jal&l Khan with him, and sent a man to call him;
bat Sult&n Sh&h remonstrated against the delay, representing
that Jal&l Kh&n might come up afterwards* Upon this, they
went off in the direction of the enemy. It so happened,
that Salt&n Bahlors army was prepared for these movements ;
so that when Prince Jal&I Kh&n, in obedience ta the sum-
mons of Hnsain Kh&n, had left the army of MiAammad Sh&h,
and started for the Jhama, he found himself in the presence
of the Sultan's troops, instead of Husain Eh&n's. Thereupon,
Saltan BahloFs men seized Jal&l Kh&n, and brought him into
the presence of their sovereign, who imprisoned him, deter-
mining to retain him as a hostage for the safety of Eutb Kh&n.
[Hnsain Eh&n, when he heard of this capture of Jal&l Kh&n,
being in fear and dread of Muhammad Sh&h, took to flight and
went to Jaunpur.] * Muhammad Sh&h was terror-stricken when
he learnt the capture of one brother and the flight of another,
fearing that the latter might go and do damage to his interests
throughout the country ; but being unable to offer any opposi-
tion, he went to Eanauj, and was pursued as far as the Ganges
by Sult&n Bahlol, who returned to Dehli after plundering a
small portion of the baggage [and capturing some elephants and
horses],
Sh&hzada Husain Eh&n, in the year 857, eame, at Jaunptir,
into the presence of Bibi BAji, to pay his respects; and
as she was greatly displeased with Muhammad Sh&h, she, with
the aid of the Sharki nobles and grandees, raised him to the
throne of the kingdom of Jaunpur, with the title of Sult&n
Husain.* Malik Mubdrak Gang, Malik 'Ali Gujar&ti, and other
chiefs were appointed to attack Muhammad Sh&h, who had
taken up a position at B&jgarh, on the river Ganges. When
1 Makhsan.
* Thu date is quite iireooncilable with the Jaunpfir history — according to which,
eren Mahmiid Sh&h did not die till the year 862, and Muhammad Sh&h's reigu
lasted for fire months.
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84 NTAMATU-LLA.
Sultan Husain^s army approached, divers nobles who were dis-
satisfied with Muhammad Sh&h forsook him, and joined the
forces of Sult&n Husain. Muhammad Sh&h fled, accompanied
by 100 of his body-guard, and arrived at a garden which was in
that neighbourhood, where he was surrounded by the Sultin's
soldiers. Muhammad Sh&h, being a capital archer, took up
his bow and arrows ; but previous to this, Bibi Bfiji had per-
suaded the armourer of Muhammad to remove the points from
the arrows which he had in his quiver, so he found, at the
time of action, that all the arrows which he drew forth from his
quiver were pointless. At last he threw down his bow, and took
to his sword, with which he smote down several persons ; but an
arrow from the bow of destiny was sent by the hand of Malik
Mub&rak Gang, which struck Muhammad Sh&h in the throat.
The wound caused him to &11 from his horse to the ground,
when he attained martyrdom.
*' Our mother, Nature, never bore a son whom she did not slay !
Beware, distrust the love of this murderer of her offspring ! "
After these events, the Almighty established Sult&n Husain
firmly in the possession of the kingdom. He made peace with
Sult&n Bahlol, by which they were both bound to remain satis-
fied with their own possessions for four years. R&i Part&b was
induced by Kutb Khan to side with Sult&n Bahlol.^ When
Sult&n Husain had made peace, and arrived near the Hatiz-i
Hariya^ he sent for Kutb Kh&n [Lodi] from Jaunpur, and after
presenting him with a horse, a royal dress of honour, an elephant,
girdles, daggers, and jewelled swords, he gave him leave to
depart, and having thus treated him with all possible honour
and respect, sent him to Sult&n Bahlol. Sultan Bahlol, likewise,
gratified Prince Jal&l Kh&n by the kind and polite manner in
which he behaved to him, and then sent him to Sult&n Husain.
Some time after, Sult&n [Bahlol] determined to go to Shams-
ib&d ; which place he again took from Jtin& Eh&n, and gave it
^ [This sentence is found only in the Tdrikh-% Khdn^Jahdn Lodi.}
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TAKIKH-I KHAN JAHAN LODf. 85
to BM Karan. He also presented the kettle-dram and standard
whieh he had wrested from Dary& Ehia to Narsing Deo, the
son of R&i Part&b.^ Dary& Kh&n took advantage of an oppor-
tmiity^ and, with the approval of Kntb Kh&n, slew Narsing Deo.
Kntb Eh&n, Husain Kbdn, Mnb&riz Eh&n, and E&i Part&b,
having entered into a conspiracy, went over to the Sharki monarch.'
Snlt&n Bahlol, finding himself too weak to resist them, went back
to Dehli ; and after some time, started for Mult&n, with the in-
tention of putting an end to the disturbances in the Panj&b. He
left Kntb Kh&n Lodi and ELh&n Jah&n in Dehli, to act as his
deputies during his absence ; but whilst he was yet on the road,^
news reached him that Sult&n Husain, with a well-appointed army
and war-elephants, was marching towards Dehli. Sult&n Bahlol
turned back, and with all possible speed returned to Dehli, and
went out to meet the foe, with whom, after some time, he ibund
himself hce to &ce. Continual fighting took place between the
two parties during the space of seven days, when at length,
after much slaughter, by the efforts of the chiefs, a peace was
brought about ; and it was agreed that both kings should remain
within the boundaries of their respective territories for three years.
Aft^r this truce, Sult&n Bahlol abode in Dehli for three
years, and Sult&n Husain returned to Jaunptir, and attended to
the afiairs of his kingdom and army. During this period.
Sultan Bahlol proceeded against Ahmad Kh&n Mew&tti, who had
before been an ally of Sultan Husain. When he arrived in
Mew&t, Ahmad Kh&n was induced by the representations of the
Kh&n*kh&n&n, one of the chief nobles of Sult&n Bahlol, to come
in and pay his respects.
^ Pirishta represents this in quite a different light : — *' Part&b "Rki had formerly
taken a standard and pair of drams from Dary& Eh&n Lodi in action ; and that
chief, in order to aTenge himself, assassinated Narsing B&i, in spite of the opposition
of Kntb Eh&n, the son of Husain Eh&n. Mub&rak 'Khkn, apprehensive of Daryi
Kh&n's influence at Court, fled to Husain Sh&h Shark!/'— ^ny^«, toI. i. p. 556.
> Ni'amatn-lla represents thai this conspiracy arose in consequence of the assassina^
lion of Narsing Deo (MS., p. 87; Born, p. 51) ; but there seems no connexion. [No
mention is made of '' Eiitb Eh&n *' in any of the MSS. of the Makhzan,^
^ [** Before he reached Lahore." — Makhzan.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
86 NrAMAxrr-LLA.
About this period Ahmad Eh&n, the son of Ytisof Kh&n
Jalw&Di, governor of Baj&ua, broke out into revolt against
Sult&n Bahlol; and having caased the khutba to be read and
coin to be struck in the fort of Bay&na in the name of Sult&n
Husain, sent intelligence of this to Sult&n Husain.^ No dispute
had occurred during the period, of the three years' truce; but
now the Sult&n marched towards Dehli with 100,000 horse and
1000 elephants. Sult&n Bahlol came out of Dehli, and drew np
his forces before the enemy in the neighbourhood of Bhatw&ra.
Kh&n Jah&n interposed, and effected a recQUciliation between the
parties; after which Sult&n Husain went to Et&wah, and remained
there, whilst Sult&n Bahlol returned to Dehll.
After the lapse of some time, Sult&n Husain broke his oath,
and again advanced against Sult&n Bahlol. Sult&n Bahlol left
Dehli, »id both sides skirmished during several days in the
vicinity of the Sar&i Lashkar ; they, however, ended by making
peace. About this time Sult&n Husain's mother, Bibi B&ji,
departed this life in Et&wah. Kaly&n Mai, the son of B&i Earan
Sing, B&J& of Gw&lior, and Kutb Eh&n Lodi, went from Chanda-
w&r to condole with Sult&n Husain. Eutb Kh&n found that
Sult&n Husain was inimical to and disposed to injure Sult&n
Bahlol, so he flattered the Sult&n by telling him that Bahlol
was his subject, and unable to cope with him as a rival, and
that he would take no rest until he had obtained possession of
Dehll for him. After thus deceiving Sult&n Husain, Kutb
Kh&n took leave of him, and presented himself to Sult&n
Bahlol, and said, '* We have escaped from the hands of Sult&n
Husain by wiles and contrivances, and have discovered that he
entertains a rooted hatred to you. It is necessary for you, there-
fore, to look to yourself. Be on the alert."
About this time, Sult&n 'Al&u-d din departed to the mercy
of God in Bad&un. Sult&n Husain went there for the purpose
of offering condolence, but he finished by wresting Bad&un from
'Al&u-d dln^s son, and in doing so injured his reputation. From
^ [Dom*8 Yenion is here defective.]
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TARTKH-I KEAN JAHAN LODI. 87
thence he went to Sambhal, where he confined Mub&rak Kh&n,
the son of T&t&r Eh&n, the governor of that place, and sent
him to S&ran. He then proceeded in person against Dehli,
with a large army and 1000 elephants, and arrived at the ferry
of £anjh, on the river Jamna, in the month of Zi-1 hijja,
A.H. 893, and encamped there. Sult£n Bahlol was, at this
period, in the direction of Sirhind, but came to Dehli when he
heard the news. Both parties were employed in fighting for
some time, and the eastern forces were generally victorious,
owing to their superior strength and numbers. In the end,
Kutb £h&n sent a person to Sult&n Husain with a message,
saying, " I am the grateful servant of Bibi B&ji ; she treated me
with the utmost kindness when I was a prisoner in Jaunpur. I
think that the most advisable course to pursue at present is to
make peace, and return. Let the countries on the other side of
the river Ganges be ruled by you, and those on this side by
Sultan Bahlol." Thus did Kutb Kh&n'^s interposition put an
end to this warfiure.
Sultan Husain, relying on the truce which had been concluded,
marched away, leaving his baggage behind. Sult&u Bahlol took
advantage of the opportunity, pursued Sult&n Husain, and plun-
dered his baggage. A portion of the valuables and treasures,
which had been laden on horses and elephants, fell into the hands
of Sult&n Bahlol. Moreover, forty noblemen of Sult&n Husain'^s
army, who were grandees of his kingdom, including Katlagh
Eh&n, the tcas^^ who was one of the most learned men of the
age, Odhu, the ndib^ and others like them, were made captive.
Soltdn Bahlol put E[atlagh Kh&n in chains, and gave him in
charge to Kutb £h&n. The defeated Sult&n himself also
fled ; Malika Jah&n, the chief wife of Sult&n Husain, was
taken prisoner. Sult&n Bahlol appointed eunuchs to keep strict
guard over the wife of the Sult&u ; and after some time she
was sent, with the greatest honour and respect, to Sult&n
Husain. Sult&n Bahlol seized several parganaa which belonged
to Sult&n Husain, such as Kampil, Patti&li^ Sakit, Kol, and
Digitized by VjOOQIC
88 NI'AMATU-LUL
JaUli,^ and appointed his own governors. He then went himself
in pursuit, and when the pursuit had lasted some time, Sult4n
Husain &ced about, and posted himself in the villa^ of B&m-
panjw&ran, which is attached to B&pri. At length, a truce waa
agreed upon, the conditions of which were that both the Sult&ns
should remain contented with their old boundaries. After the
conclusion of peace, both returned to their respective countries.'
In the next year Sult&n Husain, at the instigation of Malika
Jah&n, forgetful of his oath, again came to attack Sult&n Bahlol,
at the head of a large army. A desperate battle was fought,
near the village of Sonh&r, and Sult&n Husain, being again
routed, went to B&pri. Sult&n Bahlol pitched his camp near the
village of Dhup&mu. An immense amount of valuable property
fell into the hands of the Lodis, the possession of which tended
much to increase the power and authority of Malik Bahlol.
About this time intelligence arrived of the decease of Kh&n
Jah&n Lodi, and Sult&n Bahlol granted to his son the title of
Kh&n Jah&n, and conferred on him the appointments held by
his &ther. He then went to B&pri against . Sult&n Husain,
and was victorious, after much fighting and slaughter. Sult&n
Husain, being defeated, fled across the river Jumna. Whilst
passing that stream, several of his wives and children were
drowned in the river of mortality ; this caused Sult&n Husain
excessive pain and affliction. He, after suffering much trouble,
and repentance, went off towards Gw&lior, intending to pro-
ceed from thence to Jaunpdr. On his way to Gw&lior, the
Bhadauryas attacked his camp. When he arrived at that place,
B&i Karan Sing, the B&ja of Gw&lior, showed his allegiance,
and received him with regal honours. He presented an offering
to the Sult&n, consisting of some lacs of tankaSy various descrip-
tions of tents, with some horses, elephants, and camels, and
thus proved himself one of the well-wishers of the State. He
^ Ni'amata-lla omits the names, but Firislita adds those of Shams&b&d and
Marhera, and mentions Jales&r in lieu of Jal&li.
' The Makhzan-i Afghani represents that actual possession was the basis of this
hollow truce between these perfidious princes.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAETKH-I KHAN JAHAK LODT. 89
also sent a body of his own troops to aceompanj tbe Salt&n as
&r as E&lpi.
Whilst this was happening, Sult4n Bahlol determined to pro-
ceed to Etdwah. Ibrahim Kh&n, the brother of Sult&n Husain,
and Haibat Eh&n, called Qurg^anddz^ *' the wolf-slayer/^ who
had posted themselves in Et&wah, fought for three days, after
which they begged for mercy, and surrendered that fortress.
Snlt&n Bahlol appointed Ibr&him Eh&n Loh&ni to command in
£t£wah, and assigned some^ar^amu of Et&wah to B&i D&dand.
He then went with a numerous force against Sult&n Husaiu ;
they met at the Tillage of E&ng&nw, which belongs to E&lp(, and
both parties were engaged for some time in preparation for
battle. The river Jumna was between them. At this period
Bai Tilak Ghand, the governor of the territory of Baksar/ came
to pay his respects to Sultan Bahlol, and took his army across
the river by a ford, against the troops of Sultdn Husain, who,
being too weak to resist, fled to the Panna' country, the B&j& of
which place came out to meet him, and presented him with some
laea of tankasy and 100 horses and elephants, after which he sent
his own soldiers with him as &r as Jaunpiir.
Sult&n Bahlol collected a body of men, with the intention of
gaining possession of Jaunptlr, and when he drew near, Sult&n
Husain, being unable to resist, retired toward Bahr^ich, towards
which place Sult&n Bahlol likewise directed his steps, and they
met on the banks of the Bahab.' After a contest, which ended
as usual in the defeat of Sult&n Husain, the whole of the
regalia^ fell into the hands of the Lodis. Sult&n Bahlol, after
the victory, made up his mind to go to Jaunpur, which place he
1 Firishta has Katebr (Rohilkhand). — Briggs, vol. i., p. 659. 'Abdulla says,
gOTemor of that place (K&lpl) Tdrikh^i Ddiuii, MS. p. 28.
* " Patna" is the most common reading, bnt I conceiye that " Panna," in Bnndel-
Ir^aiMj^ is meant.
s Firishta says the K&lf Nadi.— Briggs, toI. i, p. 569.
« Firishta adds that Bibi Ehnnza, daughter of the late king, Saiyid 'Al&n-d din,
and chief lady of Husain Sh&h's household, was taken captive and treated with
respect Ahmad Y6dg&r (MS. p. 10) represents her as instigating her husband
Mahffl6d to hostilities against BahloL
Digitized by VjOOQIC
90 NI'AMATU-LLA.
took poBsession of. Leaying Mub&rak Eh&n to govern Jaanpur,
and £utb Kh&n Lodi and Kh^ Jah&n, with some other nobles,
in the territory of ManjhauH, he himself proceeded in the
direction of Bad&un. Sult&n Husain availed himself of the
opportunity thus offered, and returned to Jaunpur, with a hrge
army ; upon which the nobles of Sult&n Bahlol quitted Jaunpur
and went to Manjhauli ; but finding themselves unable to hold
that place, they entered into an arrangement with Sult&n Hussun,
and amused him under various artifices, devised by Kutb Eh&n,
until such time as succour should arrive. Sult&n Bahlol sent his
own son, B&rbak Sh&h, to aid them, and also followed in person.
Sultdn Husain, being unable to do anything, went to Bih&r.
When Sult&n Bahlol arrived in the town of Haldi, he
heard the news of the death of Kutb Kh&n Lodi, the sou
of Isl&m Kh&n, the Sult&n's uncle. After passing some days
in the performance of the customary mourning, he went to
Jaunpur; and having established B&rbak Sh&h on the throne
there, returned himself to K&lpi, which place he gave to 'Azam
Hum&yun,^ the son of Prince Khw&ja B&yazid. He then pro-
ceeded to Dhdipdr by the road of Ghandaw&r ; and the B&i of
Dhulpur came forth to meet him, and presented him with some
tnans of gold, so that the B.&i was treated as a well-wisher of
the State. The Sult&n marched thence and came to the pargana
of B&ri. Ikb&l Kh&n, the governor of B&ri, having paid his
respects in a fitting and respectful manner, was appointed a
servant of the State. He made an offerinor of some mans of
gold to the Sult&n, who confirmed him in the possession of B&ri.
1 **' Bahlol, being now old, diYided his dominionB among his sons. Jannpfir was
conferred on B&rbak Eh^ ; Karra and M&nikptir on ' Alam Kh&n ; Bahr&ich on his
nephew Sh&hz&da Muhammad Farmuli, known by the name of Kid6, Pah&r (the
black rock) ; Lucknow and K&lpi on ' Azam Hum&ydn, whose father, B&yazid Kh&n,
was aasasBinated by one of his own serrants ; Bad&Cin was allotted to Eh&n Jah&n, a
relation, and one of his oldest officers ; and Dehli with several districts in the Do&b
were conferred on his son Prince Niz&m Sh&h, known afterwards by the name of
Sikandar, whom he now declared his heir and successor." — Firishta, vol. L, p. 660.
The nobles are represented by the same historian as considering the saccession to
be the right of 'Azam Hum&y^n.
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TARTKH-I KHAN JAHAN LODf. 91
From thence, proceeding towards All&hdp6r, a dependency of
Bantambhor,^ he overran that country, and spoiled its fields and
gardens. After which he came to Dehli, where he remained,
and spent some time in ease and festivity, in performing deeds
of justice and displaying liberality.'
At the close of the rainy season and the rising of the star
Ganopns, he went to Gwalior, the ruler of which place, B&ja
M^ came forth to show his obedience; and after presenting an
offering of eighty Iocs of tonkas, he was confirmed in the posses-
sion of G-w&lior.' From that place the Sult&n marched to
Etawah, from the government of which place he dismissed "R&i
Sangat Sing, the son of B4i D&dand,^ and then went back to
Dehli. On the road he fell sick, on account of the excessive
heat, and near the village of Mal&wi,^ which is in the territory of
Sakit, in the year a.h. 894 (a.d. 1488), he departed from this
transitory and troublesome existence to the regions of eternity,
in obedience to the summons of the Almighty.* He reigned
daring the space of thirty-eight years eight months and eight
days ; and one of the most learned men of the age has made
this verse in his praise : — " In the year 894 departed from the
earth the mighty monarch, the vanquisher of kingdoms, the
world-conqueror Bahlol." '^
^ The Tabakdt-i Akhari assigiiB 887 h. as the year of the invasioii of Bantambhor.
^ Among the Extracts from Ahmad Y&dg&r {jmprd^ p. 4), will be found passages
Telatbg to transactions with the E&i of Udipnr and Ahmad Kh&n Bhatti. It is
iwpofsible to assign their proper dates.
' Ahmad T&dg&r represents that Bfijli M&n died during Bahlol's reign, and that
his son consented to pay an Bjaai£l peshkash of twelve elephants and 200,000 rapees.
These border E&j&s were the object of constant plunder to the Kings of Dehli, Jaunp(ir,
and M&lw&y as each in his tnm obtained the temporary predominance. [The Makhzan
pats it rather differently, and says ** the Sult&n postponed the conquest of Gw&lior."]
* [Tar. "DandV "D&d," "Dand."]
• ['' Jal&li " in the MSS. of the Makhzan.']
^ He was buried in Jtid B&gh, near Dehli.— lUW^A-t Bdm, MS. p. 29.
^ A Tery favourable estimate of BahloFs character will be found among the Extracts
from the Tdrikh-i LdKtdi (tuprd, YoL lY., p. 436). Firishta is equally panegyrical : —
^ Bahlol Lodf was esteemed a virtuous and a mild prince, executing justice to the
ntmost of his knowledge, and treating his courtiers rather as companions than subjects.
When he obtained the crown, he divided the public treasure among his friends, and
Digitized by VjOOQIC
92 XrAMATU-LLA.
I%e proceedings of SuUdn Sikandar Lodi at Owdlior and Bay ana.
— Rebellion in Jaunpiir, — Retreat from Panna. — Conquest of
Bihar.— {am. 897-901.)
Sult&n Sikandar then pursued his march to K&lpi, of which
he dispossessed 'Azam Humajdn, the son of Prince Ehw&ja
Bayazid, and bestowed it upon Mahmud Eh&n Lodi. After
which he proceeded to Baksar Chhetra, whose goyemor, T&t&r
Eh&n, showed the most entire homage and allegiance to him,
and was confirmed in the government of Ghhetra. He then
directed his progress to Gw&lior; from whence he despatched
Ehw&ja Muhammad Farmuli with an honorary dress to R&jd
M&n, who acknowledged his authority, and sent in return a
nephew of his to attend upon the Sult&n. His way now led him
to Bay&na, where Sult&n Ashraf, a son of Ahmad Eh&n Jalw&ni,
presented himself before him, professing his submission. He was^
nevertheless, ordered to evacuate Bay&na, and to take in exchange
Jalesar, Mahrera, Chandawar, and Sakit. Ashraf, in conformity
with this command, took 'Umar Eh&n Sarwfini with him to
Bay&na, under the pretence of delivering the keys over to him ;
but when within the walls, he foolishly drew the shield of rebel-
lion over his face, closed the gates, and put the fort in a state of
defence, and was imitated by Haibat Kh&n Jalw&nl, one of his
vassals, in Agra, which was a dependency of Bay&na.
The Sult&n had, in the meanwhile, pitched his tents on the
banks of the Jumna, whither he retired in order to avoid the
could be seldom prerailed on to ascend the thlt)ne, flaying, ' That it was enough for him
that the world knew he was king, without his makhig a display of royalty.' He was
extremely temperate in his diet, and seldom ate at home. Though a man of no great
literary acquirement himself, he was fond of the company of learned men, whom he
rewarded according to their merit. He placed great reliance on the courage of his
Mughal troops, on which account they met with such encouragement among: hia
relations and courtiers, that it ia estimated there were nearly 20,000 Mughals in the
service of the goTemment during his reign. He was a wise and braTe prince, and
personally well acquainted with Muhammadan law. He also studied the best insti-
tutes for maintaining order in his goyernment, which he invariably adopted. He waa
prudent, and, above all things, deprecated hurrying matters of State ; and, indeed,
his eonduot throughout life sufficiently evinced how much he practised this quality.*'
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TARIKH-I KHAN JAHAN LODr. 93
heat, and amnse himself with fishing. When the news of these
occurrences arriyed, he left some of his chiefe to lay siege to Xgra,
and drew his army back to Bay&na, which he closely invested.
8alt&n Ashrafy being hard pressed, offered to surrender, and thus
Bay&na was conquered in the year 897^ (1492 a.d.). Sultin
Sikandar entrusted the fort to E^an-kh&n&n Farmuli, and him-
self returned to DehU. He had arrived at this place only
twenty-four days, when intelligence was brought from Jaunpdr,
that the taminddrB of that province, headed by the Baefagotis,
had collected together a force of nearly 100,000 men, horse and
foot, and deposed Mub&rak E^&n, the governor of Jaunpur, and
even killed his brother Sher Eh&n ; that Mub&rak Kh&n himself
had crossed the Gkmges by the ferry of Jus(, but had fallen into
Mnll& Kh&n's hands ; upon which E&i Bhid, B&ja of Panna,
had seized and carried him off a prisoner. B&rbak Sh&h, from
his inability to offer resistance, abandoned Jaunpur, and retreated
to Muhammad Eh&n Farmuli, who bore the title of K&1& Pah&r
('black mountun'). The Sult&n marched in 899 (1493-4), in that
direction, and when he arrived at Dalamau, Barbak Sh&h and all his
nobles presented themselves humbly before him, and were received
with royal &vour and kindness. Rdi Bhid, being apprehensive of
the Sult&n^s displeasure, sent Mubarak Eh&n to the Sult&n; upon
which, the latter proceeded to Eatehr, where the zaminddra had
concentrated themselves in large numbers, and offered a well-
contested battle ; but being finally defeated, dispersed themselves
in all directions, and the army of Isl&m captured a great quantity
of booty.
He now returned victorious to Jaunpdr, and having for the
second time settled the administration of the place upon Bdrbak
Sh&h, he again set out on his return to Dehli. He enjoyed
himself in field sports during one month in the neighbourhood
of Oudh ; but when he reached Katehr, he received intelligence
that Bdrbak Sh&h could not maintain himself in Jaunptir against
1 Dr. Dom {History of the JfyAdns, p. 56) says 898 ; but my copy of the
JMrJb0M-t Afghdni reads 897.
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94 NI'AMATU-LLA.
the attacks of the zaminddrs; upon which the Sult&n detached
Muhammad Kh&n Farmuliy 'Azam Hum&yun, Kb6n Jah&n,
and Kh&n-kh&n&n Loh&n{ by way of Oudh, and Mub&rak Kh&n
by that of Earra, with orders to put B&rbak Sh&h in chains, and
send him to Court. This being faithfully executed, he gare him
in charge to 'Umar Kh&n Sarw&ni and Haibat Kh&n, and pro-
ceeded himself to the fort of Ghun&r to chastise some nobles of
Sult&n Hosain Sharki. These, however, after giving battle,
were obliged to retreat, and fortified themselves in Chun&r,
which being very strong and almost impregnable, he did not
stop to besiege it, but proceeded towards Eantit, a dependency
of Panna;^ the R&j& of which place, B&[ Bhid, came out to
meet him, and proffered his allegiance, for which the Sult&n
confirmed him in the possession of Kantit, and moved on to Arail
and Bay&k. It was at this time that B&i Bhid, in consequence
of his suspicious temper, abandoned all his camp-equipage and
effects, and fled. The Sult&n ordered his whole property to be
collected together, and sent to the Bdj&.^ On his arrival at Arail,
he ordered the gardens and habitations of that district to be
laid waste ; after which, he proceeded, by the way of Earra, to
Dalamau, where he married the widow of Sher Eh&n Loh&ni, who
was one of the most beautifiil and intelligent women of the age ;
and then continued his march to Shams&b&d, fi'om whence, aft«r
a stay of six months, he proceeded to Sambhal, but returned
again from thence to Shamsdb&d. On his way thither, he
destroyed a place called Pareot&kal^ the sink and receptacle of
marauders, and put to death most of that rebellious gang.
After spending the rainy season at Shams&b&d, in a.h. 900
(1494-5), he set out in the direction of Panna, for the purpose of
chastising B&j& Bhid; but on his arrival at Eh&n Gh&ti, he fell
in with his son Bir Sing Deo, who offered battle, but, being put
to flight, fled towards Panna, pursued by the army of Isl&m. On
^ Briggs (vol. i., p. 670) reads ^ Kootamba)" a dependency of Patna, and calls the
Rfej& " Bulbhndar Ray/'
2 The Makhzan-i Afghdni, on the contrary, says (MS., p. 100] that the Snlt&n gaTe
it oyer to be plundered, which is by far the most probable statement
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MRrKH-I KHAN JAHAN LODr. 95
the Sultfin's arrival at Pansa, B&j& Bhid fled towards Sirgoja,
bat died on the road. Sult&n Sikandar then penetrated as far
as Phaphdnd, belonging to Panna;^ but he was compelled to
retreat to Jaunpur, in consequence of the extreme scarcity of
provisions, opium, salt, and oil. Besides which, almost all the
horses perished ; so much so, that ninety out of every hundred
died. In consequence of this, Lakhni Chand, a son of B&j&
Bhid, and all the zanUnddra wrote to Sult&n Husain, repre-
senting that Sikandar did not possess a single horse, all having
perished. Husain, upon this, marched out of Bih&r at
the head of a large force, including 100 elephants, with the
intention of defeating Su1t6n Sikandar; who, having crossed
the Granges at the ferry of Eantit, went first to Ghun&r, and
thence to Ben&res. He detached Eh&n-kh&n&n to Salbahan,
the son of "Riji Bhid, with directions to conciliate him, and
induce him to accompany the Khdn. Meanwhile, Sultan Husain
had reached within thirteen koa of Bendres, and Sult&n Sikandar
drew near with all expedition ; and having marshalled his troops,
with the divine aid, commenced the engagement, supported by
Salbdban, who had opportunely arrived to his support. The
battle was well contested ; but at length the fortune of the day
suddenly turned against Sultan Husain, who fled towards Patna ;
bat being closely pursued by Sult&n Sikandar at the head of
100,000 cavalry, he took the route of Bih&r. Afl;er the lapse of
nine days, Sult&n Sikandar succeeded in reaching Husain's
camp, and then heard that he had fled to Bih&r. Thither also
he was pursued by Sikandar, and on his ascertaining this to be
the case, he left Malik Eandu behind in the fort, and sought
shelter at Ehalg&nw, a dependency of Lakhnauti.' Sult&n Sikan-
^ The Makhzan-i Afghtbhl (MS. p. 100) says *' Kanauj/* But though there is a
Fhaphand in the Do&b, which was formerly a dependency of Eananj, this evidently
refers to some other wilder district in the Bandelkhand hiUs. Dom in his translation
also has "Kananj."
s We learn from Firishta (i., p. 572), that the fiigitiye was received by 'Al&a-d dfn,
King of Bengal, with the utmost courtesy. Under his protection he passed the
remainder of his days in obscurity, and in his person the Sharkl dynasty became
extinct.
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96 NI'AMATU.LLA.
dar then detached from his camp at Deob&r, a force to lay
waste Bihar. Malik Eandu, from his inability to resist the
Sult&n's troops, took to flight, and Bih&r thas fell into the
possession of the Salt&n. Sikandar haying left Muhabbat Eh4n,
together with several chie&, in Bih&r, proceeded to Darweshpur,
where he left Eh&n-khan&n in charge of his camp, and advanced
himself in all haste to Tirhtit, whose B4j& advanced to receive
him with all humiliation, and agreed to the payment of several
lacs of tankas as a fine, for the receipt of which the Sult&n
left Mub&rak Kh&n behind, and proceeded a second time to
Darweshpur.
Saltan Sikandar punishes the governor of DehlL — His proceedings
at Giodlior, Bat/dna, Dhulp&r, and Mandrail. — Foundation
of Agra. — Earthquake at Agra, — Proceedings on the Cham-
bal, — Capture of Awantgar. — Disastrous march to Agra.
— (A.H. 906^913.)
About the same time intelligence of the mal-administration
and misconduct of Asghar, the governor of Dehli, reaching the
sublime ear, Khawfis Kh&n, governor of M&chlw&ra, was com-
missioned to apprehend and transmit him to Court. But prior to
the arrival of Khaw&s Kh^, Asghar, on the 1st of Safar, 906 h.
(27 August, 1500), fled from Dehli to Sambhal, to offer his sub-
mission ; but by the high command of the Sult&n, he was seized
and thrown into prison. Ehaw&s Kh&n repaired to Dehli, and
leaving there his son Isma'il Kh&n, returned, according to
orders, to SambhaL The Sult&n received him most graciously,
and presented him with an honorary vest. Soon after, Sa'id
Kh&n Sarw&ni, who belonged to the seditious party, came from
Lahore to pay his respects. The Sult&n banished him, together
with T&t&r Kh&n, Muhammad Sh&h, and the other disaffected
chiefs, from his empire ; and they accordingly took the route of
Gw&lior, and went off in haste to M&lw& and Gujar&t.
B&J& M&n, of Gw&lior, sent one of his attendants, Nih&I,
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TABrKH'I KHAK-JAHAN LODF. 97
with Talaable presenta to the Salt&n:; but when the enyoy wai
admitted to him, he returned such coarse and improper anewen
to the questions put to him, that the 9nlt&n, in a rage, uttered a.
threat ^ that he would himself command an expedition against
the fort (of Ow&lior) and capture it.
Meanwhile, the report of the death of Kh&n-khin&n FarmuU,
governor of Bay&na, having reached the Sult&n, he appointed the
two sons of the deceased, 'Im&d and Sulaim&n, to succeed him ;
but as Bay&na, owing to its strong fort and frontier situation,
was the seat of sedition and tumult, they both came with their
attendants to Sambhal, to consult with the Sult&n about some
afiaii3. Deeming their arriyal inopportune, he appointed Khaw&s
Eh&n governor of Bay&na ; and after some days, Safdar Eli&n
was nominated goyemor of Agra, one of its dependencies. To
Im&d and Sulaim&n he gave Shams&b&d, Jales&r, Manglaur,
Sh&h&bid, md some other districts. After that, he ordered
''Jdaan Khan Mew&tt{, and Kh&n-kh&n&n Loh&ni, jdgirddr of
R&pri, in conjunction with Khawas Kh&n, to reduce the fort of
Dfa61pur, and wrest it from the hands of B&i M&nik-deo. YHien
these ehie&, in execution of the command, directed their route
against that place, the rdi came out to repel force by force, and
much life was daily lost on both sides. Amongst the killed was
JDiw&ja Ben, one of the most gallant of combatants.
On account of these occurrences, Sikandar himself marched
on Friday, the 6th Bamaz&n, 906 (March, 1501), upon Dhdlpur;
but Baj^ M&nik-deo, placing a garrison in the castle, retreated
to Gw&lior. This detachment, however, being unable to defend
it, and abandoning the fort by night, it fell into the hands
of the Muhammadan army. Sikandar, on entering the fort,
fell down on his knees, and returned tibanks to God, and cele-
brated his victory. The whole army was employed in plunder-
ing, and all the groves which spread their shade for seven kas
around Bay&na were torn up from the roots. After a residence
> The word in the origmalAnd in the MakMuin-i Afykdni (MS. p. 105) is «Aj J^
wldeh Dr. Dora h» oonverted (p. 60) into tiio ntme of a fort edlad ** Tahd.**
TOI.. V. 7
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98 NrAMATU-LLA.
of one month in Dhdlpdr, the Salt&n marched to Gw&lior.
There he left Adam Lodi, with most of the nohlee, and passing
the Ghamhal, encamped for two months on the banks of the KjA
or Mendhi, where his people fell sick, owing to the badness of
the water. B&j& M&n not only delegated ambassadors for
peace, bnt expelled from the fort Sa'id Ehto, B&bu Eh&n,
and R&i Gtmesh, who had formerly deserted the Sult&n, and
taken refiige with him. Besides that, he sent his eldest son,
Bikram&jit, to wait upon the SuIt&n, who bestowed upon him
a robe of honour and a horse, and then allowed him to depart.
From thence the Sult&n returned towards iCgra ; and when he
reached Dhulpiir, he bestowed that district upon B&i Bin&ik-deo,
Afterwards, he set out for Bay&na, the seat of the empire, which
he honoured with his presence, and spent there the rainy season.
In Bamaz&n of the year 910 (1504 a.d.), after the rising of
Ganopus, he raised the standard of war for the reduction of the
fort of Mandr&il ; but the garrison capitulating, and delivering up
the citadel, the Sult&n ordered the temples of idols to be demol-
ished, and mosques to be constructed. After leaving M{&n Makan
and Muj&hid Eh&n to protect the fort, he himself moved out
on a plundering expedition into the surrounding country, where
he butchered many people, took many prisoners, and devoted to
utter destruction all the groves and habitations; and after
gratifying and honouring himself by this exhibition of holy zeal,
he returned to his capital Bay&na.
In the same year the heat of the air became so intense,
that almost all the people fell grievously sick of fevers. It
had for a long time occurred to the Sult&n to found a town on
the banks of the Jumna, which was to be the residence of the
Sult&n, and the head-quarters of the army, and to serve to
keep the rebels of that quarter in awe, and deprive them of
ftirther opportunity of growing refractory, for frequently the/d^lr-
ddra and government servants and the peasantry in general in
iarkdr Bay&na had complained of the violence to which they were
subject. With this view, he commissioned, in the year 911 (1505
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TKUXKE^l EHAK.JAHAK LODF. 99
A.D.), some judicious and intelligent men to explore the banks of
the river, and report upon any locality which they might consider
the most eligible. Accordingly, the exploring party left Dehli in
boats, and, as they proceeded, examined carefully both sides of
the riyer, until they arrived at the spot where ^ra now stands ;
and having approved of it, communicated their selection to the
Sult&n. Upon this, he left Dehli and marched to Mathura,
where he took boat, amusing himself by the way with various
kinds ef sport. When he approached the site indicated, he
observed two elevated spots which seemed suitable for building ;
and inquired of Mihtar MulU Kh&n, who was called ''Ndiky'
and commanded the royal barge, which of those two mounds
appeared to him the most suitable. He replied, '^ That which is
A'gra^ or in advance, is the preferable one.^ The Sultan smiled,
and said, '^ The name of this city then shall be called i^gra."
He then repeated the fdtiha^ and in an auspicious moment issued
orders for founding the city, when portions of mauza' Pashi and
mauza^ Poya, pargana Ddli, sarhdr Bay&na, were occupied for
that purpose; and the pargana of ^gra was henceforward added
to the fifty-two parganas which comprised the sarkdr of Bay&na.
From that period this city continued to advance in population,
and became the seat of government of the Sult&ns of Hind.
The Sult&n, after giving orders for the construction of a fort,
went towards Dhulpur ; and on entering the fort, transferred the
charge of it from B&i Bin&ik-deo to Malik Mu'izzu-d din, and
himself returned to ^gra, giving his nobles leave to retire to
their respective yd^ir«.
On Sunday, the 3rd of Safar, 911 (July, 1505 a.d.), a violent
earthquake occurred at Agra, and even the very hills quaked,
and lofty buildings were thrown down. The living thought the
day of judgment had arrived ; the dead, the day of resurrection.
No such earthquake had been known in Hinddst&n since the
days of Adam, nor is any such recorded in the page of history.
One of the able scholars of Hind has traced its date in the
word ^^E&zi." Many people say, that on the self-same day
Digitized by VjOOQIC
100 NrAMATU-LLA.
an earthquake was felt throaghout most of the proYmcee of
Hind«ist&n.i
When the rains had passed, and some tioie eren after the risiiig
of Canopus, towards the close of the year 911, the Sult&n went
towards Gwilior. He remained a month a^d a half at Dhulpur,
and then went to the Chambal, where he remained several
months encamped near the ferry of Qaur. Having left Prinoe
Jalil Kh&n and other !Kh&ns there, be himself advanced to
wage the holy war and to plunder the country of the infidels.
He butchered most of the people who had fled fi>r refuge to
the hills and forests, and the rest he pillaged and put in fetters.
As scarcity was felt in his camp, in consequence of the non-
arrival of the Banj&ras,* he despatched "Asam Hum&yun for
the purpose of bringing in supplies ; but when he was on his
march, he was attacked by the E&j& of Gw41ior in an ambus-
cade at Ghatiwar, about ten kas from that phioe. A bloody-
action followed, when D&ud Khan and Ahmad Kh&n, the
sons of Kh&n Jah&n, displayed signal bravery; and as the
Sult&n's army came up from the rear to render assistance, the
B&jputs were put to flight, and many were either slain or
taken captive. The Sultdn bestowed the title of Malik D&d
upon D&ud^ and treated him with the greatest kindness.
Afterwards, in consequence of the approach of the rainy season,
he bent his steps towards Agra, after leaving some of his chief
nobles at Dhulpur. At the capital he passed his time in pleasure
and amusement.
In 912, after the rising of Ganopus, the Sult&n went towards
the fort of Awanl^r, and sent on 'Im&d Kh&n Farmuli and
Muj&hid Kh&n, with several thousand cavalry and 100 elephants,
to reconnoitre the place, while he himself remained behind. He
conferred the office of chamberlain on K&zi ^Abdu-lla, the son
of T&hir, of K&bul, a resident of the town of Th&nesar, and
1 [See VoL IV., p. 466.]
2 Briggs (toI. i., p. 679) obsenres that thia is the flnt mention we hare of Ban-
jftru in Mohanunadan histoty.
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MRrKH-I KHAN-JAHiO^ LODf. 101
on Shaikh 'Umar and Shaikh Ibr&him. E&lpi, after the death
of Mahm6d Eh&n Lodi, had been bestowed upon his son Jal&l
'Khka ; bat as quarrels arose between him and his brothers, they
represented matters to the Salt&n. Upon this^ the Sult&n sent
Firoz Aghw&n to bring into his presence Bhikan Eh&n and
Ahmad Khfo, the brothers of Jal&l Kh&n, and on their arrival,
thej were receired by him on the banks of the Ghambal with
royal faronr and kindness.
On the 23rd of the month the Sult&n mrested the fort, and
ordered the whole army to put forth their best energies to
ci^tnre it. At the time which the astrologers had declared to
be propitious^ he himself advanoed to the attack, aiid the contest
raged on every sidow The bloodthirsty soldiers hung on the
walls like so many ants or locusts, an& displayed the most daring
courage. All of a sudden, by the favour of God, the gale of
Tictoiy blew on the standards of the Sult&n, and the gate was
forced open by Malik ^ AI&uhI din. After making a stout resist-
ance, the garrison begged for quarter, but no one listened to
them. The B&jputs, retiring within thehr own houses, continued
the contest, and slew their &milies after the custom of jauhar.
Meanwhile^ an arrow pierced the eye of Malik 'Al&u-d dfn, and
blinded him. After due thanksgivings for his victory, the Sult&n
gave over charge of the fort to Makan and Muj&hid Eh&n, with
directions that they should destroy the idol-temples, and raise
mosques in their places; but on its being represented that
Muj&hid Kh&n had received a bribe from the B&j& of Awantgar,
on the understanding that he was to induce the Sult&n to retire
from that country, the Sult&n, on the 16th Muharram, 913 (28th
May, 1507), seized Maul&n& Juman, who was in the special con-
fidence of Muj^hid Kh&n, and made over the fort to Malik T&ju-d
din, and directed the Eh&ns who were at Dhtilptir to imprison
Muj&hid Kh&n. The Sult&n returned towards ^gra at the close
of Muharram, 913. During this march he made a halt one day,
in consequence of the narrowness and unevenness of the road,
in order that the people might pass through without any scramble
Digitized by VjOOQIC
102 NI'AMATTJ.LLA.
or precipitation ; Irat here the whole camp was greatly distressed
for want of water, and a large number of men perished from that
cause, as well as frem being trampled and crushed by the beasts
of burden, which were all huddled together in a oonfused mass.
A jar of water could not be procured under fifteen Sikandari
tankas. Some men died from exhaustion, and some, who had
found water, quenched their thirst with such avidity that they
also fell victims to their excess. When an account was rendered,
it was found that 800 men had perished.^
On the 27th of Muharram, the Sult&n reached Dhiilpur, and
after some days entered iCgra, where he spent the season of the
rains. On the rising of Ganopus, he started on an expedition
to Narwar, one of the dependencies of M&lw&.
* • • • • « * «
8uMn SikandarU proceedings at Satkant^ Lucknow^ NdgWy and
Leai-Sheqpiir.
After remaining one month at the town of Lahair, where he
received a visit from Ifi'amat Kh&tdn, in the year 915 <1509 a.d.),
the Sult&n directed his route towards Hatk&nt, which he scoured
of idolaters and banditti ; and when he had put to the sword the
rebels of that quarter, and established small posts at every place;,
he returned again to his capital. Soon after, information was
conveyed to him, that Ahmad Kh&n, son of Mub&rak Eh&n,
governor of Lucknow, had associated with infidels, and even
apostatized from the true faith ; on which he issued a farmdn
to Muhammad Kh&n, a brother of Ahmad Eh&n, to secure and
send him to Court. It was also about this time that Muhammad
E^&n, a grandson of Sult&n N&siru-d din of M&lw&, from dread
of his grand&ther, sued for protection at the Imperial Court. A
farmdn was issued to Prince Jal&l Kh&n, importing that as Mrkdr
Chanderi * had been settled on Muhammad Kh&n, he was to be
1 [This passage ia alao giren in the IHrlkh-% DdiiM. See Vol. IV., p. 466.]
* This means that he had held it as d,jdgirddr of M&lw4, for it belonged to that
kingdom, not to DehlL And we leam from the Makhtan-i Afghdni and this work^
that Snlt&n Sikandar had two years previously attempted to procure its surrender to
him by Shah&bu-d din, a discontented son of the King of M&lw{u Subsequently we
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TABrKH-I KHAN^AHAN LODI. 103
firmly supported in its possession, and that the Prince was to
aTert from him any molestation on the part of the army of
M41w&« The Solt&n himself went to Dhulpur, for the purpose
of hunting; and caused a pavilion and palace to be erected at
each stage between that place and the capital.
When, in the year 916 (1510 A.D.), his empire was firmly
established and prospering, in a fortunate moment, while he was
engaged in his field sports, another kingdom fell into his net.
The &cts were briefly as follows : 'Ali Kh&n and Abd Bakr, two
relations of Muhammad Kh&n, ruler of Nfiger, concerted a plot
against their master, and endeavoured by stratagem to make away
with him, and seize possession of his country. He, however,
being informed of their treachery, prevented them from executing
their plans, and determined to inflict capital punishment on them.
Upon this, both of them effecting their escape, repaired to the
Court of the Sult&n. Muhammad, apprehensive of the evil
consequences arising from the enmity of his relations, the dis-
affection of his intimates, and their having taken refuge with
this powerful Sult&n, sent not only the assurance of his
allegiance, with a great many valuable rarities and offerings
to him, but ordered the khutha to be read and coin to be struck
at N&gor in the Sult&n's name. The report of this submission
gave the monarch such joy and delight, that he sent Muhammad
£h&n a horse ajid honorary dress. He then left Dhdlpur, and
honoured the capital, i^gra, with his presence, and spent some
time in a round of pleasure and filtes, in visiting of gardens and
in hunting expeditions.
It was about this time that ^gra, formerly a dependency of
Bayana, was fixed upon for the residence of the sovereign ; but
he soon after departed from Dhulpur, and transmitted an order
shall find Bnhjat Kh&n, goTenior on the part of Mahmtid, King of M&lwii, placing
Chandeii in tiie pooBeanon of the Sult&n ; and this work also informs ns (MS. p. 172)
that early in the reign of Snltfcn Ibr&bSm he appointed Sbaikhzfida Manjhdr to the
goTemment of Chanderi, and gave the office otpethtod to Salt&n Muhammad, grandson
of the King of M&lw&. Dom has by an oTcrsight (p. 73) translated the corresponding
panage;of the Maihgan'i Jfyhdni, ^* rmdor pnhwd Sult&n Muhammad."
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104 NrAMATU-LLA.
to Salaim&n, a son of Eh&n-kh&n&n Farmali, to adv^mce with
his large army towards Awantgar and tbe eonfines of Siiisdpar,
in support of the new concert, Husain, whose name before was
B&i Dungar. But Sniaim&n excused himself^ by alleging that
he could not prevail upon himself to be so remote from the
Sing's person.^ The Sultin then went to the town of B&n, and
made over thati^ar^e^na to Shaikhz4da Makan, having resumed
it from the son of Mubirak Eh£n. Then, after staying interme-
diately at Dfadlpdr, he returned to Agra ; where, according to
former custom, he issued fartndns to many of the chief nobles
on all the frontiers to call them to Oourt. It was at this time
that he was taken ill. * * *
Eeion of Sultan IsBAHiM Loni.
Punishment of the Zdminddrs of JartolL — Capture ofKdipi.
About the time of 'Azam Hura4yfin's junction with Ibr&him
Lodi, 'Umar Kh&n, son of Sikandar Kh&n Sur, having lost his
life while fighting against a body of the zaminddrs of Jartoli, a
place dependent on Kol, and receptacle of the most notorioas
vagabonds and rebels, E&sim Eh&n, governor of Sambhal,
marched to that place, and inflicted the merited punishment upon
them. Having put their leader to death, and suppressed the
rebellion, he waited on the Sult&n at Kanauj.* Most of the
nobles in the Ma of Oudh, Jaunpur, and Lunknow, including
Sa'id Eh6n and Shaikhz&da Farmuli, came likewise to pay their
respects, having abandoned the cause of Jal&l Kh&n, and were
enrolled amongst the servants of the State. In short, everything
seemed to promise success to the Sult&n. The Sult&n soon after
1 The Mahhzan-i Afghdni (MS. p. 118) says tbat the Snlt&n transferred hu>4fyir
to Makan Shaikhz&da, and adds that the Snlt&n, inoensed at his reply, forthwith, ^s-
miased him from his service, directing him to quit the camp, bnt, neTerthelees, eon-
ferred the revenne of Biram upon him for Ids fatnre maintenance.
' Dr. Dom {HitUry of the Afyhdns, p. 72) represents this Terj diiferentij. Tliat
'Umar £h6n was himself the yiotor, and returned triumphantly to Eanauj, and
nothing is said of Malik K&sim. As my Makhtan-i Afghdni (p. 128) corresponds
with the statement in the text, I suspect there must be an omission in Dr. Dom's
manuscript.
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TABfKH*! JB[HAN-JAHAN LODr. 105
detatched ^Azam Hum&ytin Lodi, 'Azam Ham&ylin Sarw&ai,
and Naeir Elh&a Loh&ni, with a formidable anny, and ferocious
elephants, against Jal&la-d din, who was at E&lpi. PreTions
to their amval, he had left 'Im&du4 Malk, Malik Badra*d din
Jalw&ni, and Ni'amat Kh&tiin, together with the family of £atb
'Kb&a LodI and his whole harem, in the fort of £&lp{, and
maidied himself towards the capital, with 30,000 cavalry and
aereral elephants, in order that he might spread alarm through-
out the pnovince, and capture, if possible, the fort of ^gra. The
nobles of the Sult4n, on their arrival before E&lpi, laid siege to
it, and for some days the contest was carried on with cannons
and matchlocks ; but, in the end, the gairison surrendered, and
deliyered up the keys of the fort. The town was plundered, and
rich booty cs^itured by Sult&n Ibr&h{m''s troops, • • *
RebeUion of Bahddur Khdn in BiUr.—Of Daulat Khdn Lodi in
the Panjdb. — Bdbar^s Invasion of Sindistdn,
Kot long after, Daryi Khin Loh&ni [goyemor of Bih&r] died ;
and his son, Bah&dnr Kh&n, succeeding to his father's dignity,
assumed the new title of Muhammad Sh&h, at the same time
ordering the khuiba to be read and coin to be struck in his name.
He equipped an army of 100,000 horse, and having been joined
by the nobles who were disaffected against the Sult&n, they united
their forces on the borders of Bih&r. At the same time, Ifasir
£h&n Loh&ni, the governor of Gh&zipiir, who commanded the
Imperial forces, sustained a defeat, and came in to Bah&dur Kh&n.^
1 The original fKys merely, ^ Naelr Kh&n haTing snetained a defeat from the army
of the SuUdn^ came before him," The Makktaf^i Afghdni (MS. p. 137) Bays pre-
eieely the same. The passage is Tery oonftised, hut the Sult&n alluded to is Ihe new
Sultte, Muhammad Shfch. Yet Dr. Dom translates (p. 77), << Nasir Eh&n, after his
defeat, returned to the Solt&n (» «. Ihr&him), but was ordered to take the field afresh
with a strong army, and to destroy the usurper," for which there is no authority in
his originaL The meaning is made altogether plain by the WdkCdUi Mmhtdkl : —
'^Vi&n MustaA plundered Ohfczlpdr, whence he expeUed Nasir Khta, who came to
Soltfcn Muhammad." (MS. p. 83.) This Mi&n Mustaflk was brother of Shaikh
Bfcyaxid Farmuli, who subsequently made himself conspicuous under B&bar. The
Mi&n had been sent at the head of a large army against Nasir Eh&n of Gb&zipdr,
and died near the Soane. We find Nasir Kh&n again in possession of Gh&zipar
in B&bar's time.— ifsmeirs, p. 849.
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106 NrAMATU.LLA.
In short, the whole country of Bih&r was reduced under the orders
of Sultan Muhammad,^ aud Ibr&hlm raised a large force to
repress this alarming insurrection.
About the same period the son of Daulat Kh&n Lodi, gOTemor
of Lahore, presented himself before the Sult&n : but inferring
from the usual proceedings of this monarch, that he would be
apprehended, he took to flight, and repaired to his fikther, to
whom he gave a foil account of the Sult&n's temper, and the
general dread entertained by the nobles. Daulat Kh&n, from
these accounts, perceiving that there was no means of eyading
the Sult&n's violence, and being sensible of his own inadequacy
to oppose him, formed an alliance with Gh&zi Kh&n Lodi, and
the other nobles 2Jii jdgirddrs of the Fanj&b; and renouncing
his allegiance to Sult&n Ibr&him, addressed through 'Alam Kh&n
Lodi an invitation to the Emperor B&bar at £&bul, to repair to
Hindust&n. No sooner bad this monarch perused the letter,
than he despatched some of his most distinguished nobles with
'jjQam Eh&n, in advance, to subdue the country; who, when
they had taken Si&lkot and Lahore, reported these conquests to
the Emperor. Upon which, he himself, on the first days of the
first Babi', in the year 932 (December, 1525), entered upon a
campaign to reduce Hindust&n.
'Xlsm Kh&n, on his arrival at Lahore, proposed to the Mughal
chiefs that, as they had been sent to render him assistance, they
should advance with him at once against Sult&n Ibr&him, and
take Dehli, before B&bar's arrival. But this the Mughals re-
fusing to comply with, 'Alam Kh&n separated from them, and
marched, at the head of 40,000 horse, upon Dehli, which he
.invested. When Sult&n Ibr&him received the accqunt of these
transactions, he hastened out of Xgn, with 80,000 horse, and
pitched his camp at a distance of six miles from Dehli. But
^jjQam Kh&n one night surprised him so successfully, that, his
army being dispersed, and he himself, with about 5000 or 6000
^ Otber authorities mention that he obtained full poesession of all the Eastern
country from Sambhal to Bih&r.
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TARIKH-I KHAN-JAHiCN LODI. 107
men, cot off from the main body, was compelled to withdraw to
some place of security. Early in the morning he received in-
formation that 'Alam Kh&n was standing protected by only 300
horse ; whilst the rest of his troops were employed in plundering
and collecting booty. That moment appeared to afford him an
excellent opportunity of gaining important advantages for him-
self; so, vnth the rising of the sun, he threw himself upon his foe,
like a hill of iron, who, incapable of parrying this charge, fled
into the Do&b ; but the greater number of his gallant men were
slain, and the remainder were dispersed in all directions, which
rendered the Sult&n's triumph complete.
About this time B&bar P&dshah arrived at Lahore; when
Qh&zi Kh&n and Danlat Kh&n, in violation of the subsisting
treaty, advanced against the fort of Bilwat.^ The prime minister
of the Mughal Emperor, Mfr Elhali&, brought ^^am Khan to
pay his respects to the Emperor, and he was well received* After
some time, Daulat Kh&n also presented himself in submission
before the Emperor, and his example was imitated by Dil&war
Eh&n.
The Emperor marched from Lahore towards S&m&na and
Sann&m, and detached Tardi Beg Kh&n, with 4000 horse, in
advance ; to oppose whom, the Sult&n sent D&dd Kh&n, one of
his principal anUrSy at the head of 10,000 cavalry, besides a
train of elephants. Upon information of his approach, Tardi
Beg marshalled his troops, and concerted a night attack upon
D&ud Kh&n^s camp ; who, unable to sustain the shock of the
aggressor, fell back, and his troops were dispersed in all direc-
tions, many of his men were slain, and D&ud Kh&n himself, with
seyenty men of high rank, fell into the hands of the enemy. * * ♦
Sher Shdh^a dying regrets.
On being remonstrated with for giving way to low spirits,
when he had done so much for the good of the people during his
short reign, after urgent solicitation, he said, ^^ I have had three
[The " MUwat" of B&bar. See Vol. IV., p. 244.]
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108 NrAMATTJ-LLA.
or four desires in my heart, which still remain without accom-
plishment, and cannot be eradicated except by death. One is,
I wished to have depopulated the country of Boh, and to have
transferred its inhabitants to the tract between the Nil&b and
Lahore, including the hills below Nindtina, as &r as the Siw&Iik ;
that they might have been constantly on the alert for the arriral
of the Mughals, and not allow any one to pass from K&bul to
Hind, and that they might also keep the mminddrs of the hills
under control and subjection. Another is to hare entirely
destroyed Lahore, that so large a city might not exist on the
very road of an invader, where, immediately after capturing it
on his arrival, he could collect his supplies and organize his
resources. Another is, to have built two fleets of fifty lai^
vessels each,^ as commodious as aardiSy for the use of pilgrims
from India to Mecca ; and to have made them so strong, that
wind and storm should not have been able to disperse them ; and
that all people might go to and irom that holy place in ease and
comfort. The last is, to have raised a tomb to Ibr&him Lodf in
P&nipat, but on the understanding that opposite to it there
should be another tomb of the Ghaghat&i Sult&ns, whom I may
have despatched to martyrdom ; and to have constructed both
^ This 18 not in strict accordance wif^ the text, but may be gathered as the real
meaning from a paasage which follows in the same page. Ahmad T&dg&r (MS. p. 313)
says only *<two ships/' which is fiff too small for such imperial aspirations as Sher
Sh&h entertained ; and especially as many more plied between India and Arabia for
the transport of pilgrims. Dom, who quotes thia passage in hie Notes from Dr. Lee*a
text, resolTes these into "fifty to fifty-four solid edifices on the road from India to
Mecca" (part ii.| p. 106). I cannot at all concur in this yiew, and quote therefore
the passages from the original : —
and again a little below : — * ' '
jcJ»U <)^1j ^"^j J (XvTjtU- ^\jo
The ^>ecific number of fifty-four sounds absurd under the oircumstaooes, and jaAds,
'* ships/' both in this and other authors, is too plain to be overlooked.
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TJLRTKS'l KHAN-JAHin^ LODF. 109
with such architectural embellishments, that friend and foe
might render their tribute of aj^lause, and that my name might
remain honoured upon earth until the day of resurrection. None
of these aspirations has God allowed me to carry into effect, and
I shall cany npiy regrets with me to my grave*''
Be9umptum and iran^er o/jdgin by 'AdaU. — Commotion in the
CoundL— Flight of Tqj EMn Eu-dni
On» day a distribution of jdffirs was made in 'Adali's ex-
chequer, which was attended by all the amhrs; when ^Adali
dispossessed Sh&h Muhammad Farmuli of his estates in Elanauj,
and transferred them to Sarmast Eh&n SarwanL This induced
Sikandar E[h4n, Farmuli*s son, a young and bold man, to ex-
claim : *' To what a pass have things come, that our estates are
taken from us, and settled on the tribe of Sarwanis, who are
BO better than sellers of dogs ! " A stormy debate ensuing from
both sides, Sh&h Muhammad, who was then sick, endeavoured
to persuade his son not to use such abusive language. But to
this he replied : ** When Sher Sh&h had one day cast thee into
an iron cage, with the intention of putting thee to death, Isl&m
Sh&h came and induced the Sh&h, at his intercession,^ to grant
ihy life : and now dost thou not perceive the design of all these
to ruin theeP Why should one brook such insult?'' At this
moment Sarmast Kh&n, who was a tall and robust man, placed
his hand fiuniliarly upon Sikandar'^s shoulders, as though to
pacify him ; but, in £Mt, with the intention of securing him in his
grasp, and said : '* My friend, what is the reason of such anger
and exasperation P " However, Sikandar, perceiving his inten-
tion, drew his dagger, and despatched him on the i^t. A
general uproar and tumult pervaded the Council, and all rushed
upon Sikandar to apprehend him ; but he, with a drawn sword
in his hand, cut down or wounded all towards whom he turned.
'Adali, on witnessing this sanguinary scene, ran off ip his private
^ So sayi the oorreipondiiig paauge of Makhztu^ Afyhdni, Imt Dom tramUlai :
•* I indnoed the Sh&h by my inteicenioii."— JSTm^. ofAfghdm^ p. 173.
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110 NTAMATU-LUL
apartment, pnrsaed by Sikandar; whom he, howerer, succeeded
in excluding by chwiing the door. The greater part of the
amirs had previously thrown away their swords and fled ; and
Sikandar stalked about everywhere like a madman, and in this
manner two hours elapsed. At last, Ibr&him Kh&a Stir, brother-
in-law of 'Adali, drew his sword and attacked Sikandar; who,
being surrounded on all sides, was killed; and Daulat Eh&a
Loh&n{ despatched Muhammad Farmuli with one blow. The
result of these transactions was a general dispersion of the
amirs^ ^Adali's authority rapidly declined, and ereiy one looked
after his own interest alone, as soon as he had secured his per-
sonal safety by flight.
Before this scene transpired, T&j Kir£ui, a brother of Sulaim&n,
having, from the different expressions of the Council, foreseen
what would happen, had left the Council-room, and proceeded as
far as the gate of the citadel of Gw&lior, by which he was about
to descend, when he met Sh&h Muhammad Farmuli. He ex-
plained to him the uproarious state of the Council, and said that no
respect was shown to any one, and that there was no unanimity
in their deliberations ; it was therefore the safest way not to
fi^uent the Council any more, but to retire into private life : he
himself would not appear any more. He invited Sh&h Muham-
mad to join him, and repair to a place affording security against
misery, till affairs took a better turn. Sh&h Muhammad rejected
this offer, in consequence of which he was killed in that riotous
Council. T&j Kir&ni went to his house, and made all prepara-
tions for flight. When he had received intelligence of what
had passed, he set out in the afternoon for Bengal, and ^Adali
despatched an army in pursuit of him.^ ♦ * *
Defeat of the Mughah at the pass of Oarhi. — Humdydn^s entry
into Gaur.
The vanguard of the Mughal army, which, in seven divisions,
had marched in advance of the main body, pitched their camp at
^ [The details of what transpired subseqaently will be found among the Extneti
from the Tdrikh^ Ddm, Vol. IV., p. 506.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARfKH-I imJCS-JAEJLV LODI. HI
a distance of three ka8 from the defile of Garhi ; and ereiy
morning, urging their horses at full speed towards the entrance
of the pass, threw their arrows and clubs at its defenders, and
then retreated. A part of them, with loud yoicee, poured forth
most bitter invectives against Jal41 Eh&n, calling him an un-
manly coward, cowering in the defile like an old woman ; that if
he were a man, and the son of a man, and in the least endowed
with impetuosity and ardour, he would descend to the field of
battle to measure strength with men, as he had not yet come in
contact with Mughals. Similar invectives were repeated every
day, and a great number of Afgh&ns perished by the fire of the
cannons and matchlocks. Jalfl Kh&n, being informed of these
proceedings by his attendants, went one day to H&ji Eh4n,
explaining to him, with the bitterest complaints, that the
Mughals, coming up eveiy day to harass them in their position
by missile weapons, and then retreating, uttered the most abusive
langnsige against him, which he could not brook any longer, for
his patience was quite exhausted. He himself certainly was too
weak to pat a stop to such injuries ; but if the other chiefi would
assent, they ought at once to march out and make their attack,
and see what the curtain of secresy would reveal. H&jf Eh&n said,
**This is not in accordance with your father^s command, with
which you are well acquainted.'' Jal&l Kh&n went on to assure
him that as long as his request should not be complied with, he
was determined to abstain from water and food. Upon which
H&ji Eh&n replied, that if such was his resolution, he certainly
must yield; and every coward returning alive from the battle
would suffer punishment by Sher Kh&n^s order; but in case
victory should crown their enterprise, all would be right. He
then, in order to insure success to his enterprise, read the fdtiha^
and Jal&l Eh&n withdrew to his own quarters.
The next morning the Mughals, according to custom, charged
their horses, and then retreated to their tents, and relieved them-
selves of their armour. The troopers then went out to forage,
whilst the officers resorted to the carpet of repose. Noon had
Digitized by VjOOQIC
112 KI'AMATXJ-LLA.
approached, when the Afgh&is, opening the gate in the defile,
sallied forth. A few only of the Mughals, whose horses were at
hand, monnted, and put themeelves in an attitude of defence ;
but the greater part, being dtseoncerted in the extreme, tamed
their fiwes to flight. The action, nevertheless, proved to be of
the most obstinate nature, and Mub&rak Farmuli and Abd-1
Fath Lang&h, besides most of the Mughal officers, ML victims
to the sword. The whole camp of the Mughals, baggage, horses,
camels, elephants, etc., fell into the hands of the victors ; and
nearly all were slain, with the exception of a very small number
of Kipchi horsemen. It is related that there was no A%h&n
footman but obtained four or five horses, valuable robes, and
many boxes of precious things, out of the spoils.^
Sher Eh&n had such a mass of wealth and treasures to cany
off firom Gaur, that he could not gather a sufficient number of
porters for that purpose, and was at a great loss how to convey
these effects to Boht&s. In the meanwhile, he received intelli-
gence from Jal&l I[h&n of this victory, at which he was exceed-
ingly rejoiced ; and immediately wrote to him, to procure, for a
suitable compensation, all the captured elephants, camels, oxen,
in short all beasts of burthen, firom any person who might possess
them, and to send them, as he was in much want of them. Sher
Eh&n, upon the occasion of that victory, made use of this adage,
^^ That if a cock, in a fight, had been once beaten, he would, on
being brought into the field a second time, set up his crowing,
but never resume the fight.'' JaUl Kh&n after this exploit
closed the gate, and stopped the progress of Humayun for more
than a month — a circumstance that enabled Sher Eh&n at his
ease to transport by way of Jh&rkand all his treasures to
Boht&s, whither he now likewise called Jal&l Kh&n.
The Emperor Humaydn, upon this, made his entrance into
Gaur. Sher Eh&n had previously fitted up all the mansions of
that place with an exquisite variety of ornaments and embellish-
ments, and rendered them a perfect gallery of pictures, by party-
» [See VoL IV., p. 367.]
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TAEIKH-I KHiCN-JAHAN LODF. 113
eolonred earpets and costly silk stuffs, in hopes that Enm&yun
efaanned with it, would he induced to prolong his stay there ; and
his designs were unexpectedly seconded by fate, for Humdyun
remained four months in Gaur, and had no leisure for any other
oocnpation than pleasure and enjoyments
*♦«*««♦
The Batik of Chaunsa. — Capture ofHumayurC% Qi^een.^
In this conflict Muhammad Zam&n, with a large force, stood
forth and commenced the action ; but was, in one charge, not
only defeated and obliged to retreat, but killed. There was no
one who could withstand ; and e^ery one who found his horse
ready turned his &ce to flight. A bridge of boats having been
previously laid oyer the Ganges, all the fugitives, whether horse
or foot, endeayoured to escape oyer it. Hum&yun had not yet
performed his ablutions, when his troops were thrown into com-
plete disorder ; he therefore, immediately finishing them, lent all
his thoughts to saye his own person ; for to save his favourite
lady, with all the other beauties of the harem^ was impossible.
He sent Ehw&ja Mu'azzam, with some other persons who were
just at hand, in this painful situation, to rescue Begam Mariam
Mak&ni from her dangerous position, whilst he himself hastened
to reach the bridge ; but it having been broken down by the
throng of the fugitives, and the pressure of the great and small,
he plunged his horse into the river. He was nearly drowned, but
Shamsu-d din Muhammad Ghaznavi succeeded in extricating him
from that destructive element by his skilful efforts and the aid
and £iyour of fortune. In consequence of his excellent service,
Shamsu-^ din's sons were raised to high and honourable stations.
When, in the meanwhile, Ehwaja Mu'azzam had conyeyed
himself as &r as the entrance of the Imperial tent, he perceived
that the A%h&ns were sedulously employed in massacre and
plunder, and he could not find an opportunity of rescuing
the yeU-coyered ladies. Neyertheless, he sacrificed his life in
1 [See VoL IV^ p. 874.]
TOl*. V- ®
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114 NTAICATU-LLA.
the execution of his master's command. The greater part of
the Mughals perished in the riTcr, and an immense number
besides fell by the sword ; whilst the Afgh&ns, by the rich booty
they captured, had all their wants abundantly supplied. The
Imperial consort likewise fell into their hands, with all her
establishment.
Constructs new Mohtds. — Its cast. — Khizr Khan governor of
Bengal
Sher Sh&h threatened to construct such a fort in that country
that it should not only effectually restrain the Ghakkars, but
also the passage of the Mughals. He therefore himself made a
tour through the hiUs of Qirjhak Ninduna [mountains circum-
jacent],^ and finding a fit spot, he laid the foundations of the fort,
which he called Eoht&s.
Besides that, he sent a large force against B4i S&rang, the
Ghakkar, and not only was the country subdued, and the kiU
ofBalndth plundered, which was then the residence of the JDdrogha
of that tracts but the daughter of its chief was taken prisoner, and
conducted before Sher Sh&h, who presented her to Khaw&s E!h&n ;
upon which R&i S&rang, they relate, sent a quantity of [hemp]
blankets and millet to Sher Sh&h, with the remark that in such
only consisted their raiment and food, besides which they could
afford nothing; according to others, he sent a lion's skin and
some [arrows] spears^ which he said was their only property.
With this conduct, however, Sher Sh&h was by no means satis-
fied. S&rang [S&rang''s troops] being weakened by [skirmishes]
the attacks of the holy warriors, and greatly reduced and
straitened, submitted himself in person to Sher Shdh, who ordered
him to be flayed alive, and his skin to be filled with straw, and so
pay the penalty of his misdeeds.
Sher Sh&h issued farmdns to complete the fortifications of
Boht&s; but Todar Ehatri represented that the Ghakkars, to
1 The panag^ printed in iiaUea in this Extinct ihow the Taiiations from Dr. Dora's
Tenion, hii reading being retained in brackets
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARIEH-I XHiCN-JAHAN LODT. 115
whom that coantrj belonged, woald not allow any one to work for
wages ; and that they bad agreed amongst tbemselves^ upon oath,
to expatriate eyerj person that should contrayene their wishes.
Sher Sh&h, in answer, told him [that he should noways be allowed
to give up tbat work, wbicb he only wished to do in consequence
of his greediness for gold] ^ that the work did not Hem to advanoe
under hie superintendence^ and that a man who was fond of money^
and was alarmed about disbursing it, would never accomplish the
king's designs. Todar, on the reception of this fresh command,
fixed first a golden ashrcffi as tbe enormous remuneration for one
stone, which induced the [Kakers] Ohakkars to flock to him in
such numbers that afterwards a stone was paid with a rupee^
and this pay gradually fell to five tankas, till the fortress was
completed.*
Sher Sh&h, during his stay in the environa of [Tatta] the
river Behaty where he amused himself with hunting, received
intelligence that Khizr Khan Surk, the governor of Bengal,
had married a daughter of Sult&n MahmM, and [maintained a
princely household] sat on the roof of the palace^ after the manner
of the kings of Bengal, at which disrespectful conduct Sher Shah
was highly displeased,
^ Bendes the correction of the text, Sher Sh&h's anBwer, as g^yen in the Tdrikh^i
Kkdn-Jahdn, MS. p. 178, shows that Todar's representation conld not have arisen
from avaricious yiews: — ^You are too eantions about the expenditure of money,
and do not desire that my words may be obeyed. It is right you should show no
r^ret in disbursing it, for whatever is expended shall be repaid from my treasury."
In the same work we are told that when the fort was finished, Todar was highly ex-
tolled for his management and superrision,
' From a rupee it fell, after some time, to ten tankas [the black tonka, equal to
»thnjp«], until it reached as low as a Bakloli [=^th rupee^—TdHkh-i Khdn-
J^kdn, US. p. 178. [See Thomas's Chronicles of the Path&n ^ngs, pp. 360, 366.]
Digitized by CjOOQIC
116
XXXVI.
07
KHONDAMrk
[This is the last work of the historian Khondamfr. It records an
event in Zi-1 ka'da at the end of 940 h., and the writer died in
the following year 941 (1534-6 a.d.).^ The book seems to have
received little notice, and remains almost unknown. It is in all
probability the same as the Kdnicn^i Humdyiini quoted by Abd-1
Fazl in the Akbar-ndma. It shows that Khondamir had become
quite a courtier in his old age, and had abandoned the studies
of the historian to become a royal panegryist. His work also
shows that he was high in favour at Court, and he gives
specimens of odes and verses which he composed on occasions
of royal festivity. He records how various attendants of the
Court received titles of honour descriptive of their characters,
and that which he received was Amir-i Akhbdr^ ''the noble
historian." Notwithstanding the high-flown strain of eulogy
in which the work is written, it contains some points of interest,
and a few Extracts follow.
Sir H. Elliot did not procure a copy of the MS., and the
Editor has had no copy to consult. The Extracts which follow
have been selected from what appears to be a complete translation
made by Sir H. EUiot'^s private munahi from a manuscript in
the possession of the Asiatic Society of Bengal.]
EXTRACTS.
Origin of this Work.
When this humble and insignificant slave, Ghiy&su-d din, son
of Hum4ma-d din, alias Khondamir, — may God £EM$ilitate all
1 [See anti VoL lY., p. 143,]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
HUMXTUN-NAMA. 117
difficulties to him ! — obtained the honour of meeting this great
king, and the rays of royal kindness shone on the surface of his
hopes and circumstances, he conceived the desire and entertained
the idea in his mind that he would describe, as a memorial for
future days, some of the works and inyentions of this monarch ;
because the histories of kings, by means of the black water of
ink, which has the effect of the water of life, are immortalized,
and the great names and writings of clever authors, by virtue of
their praises of celebrated kings, are stamped on the page of time.
For instance, the excellencies of Mahmud were described by TTtbi
and ^lJnsur{, and the poems of Mu'izzi and Anwari celebrated
the character of Sanjar»
" Who would remember Hakim Anwari,
Had he not spoken about Sanjar and his works ?
Because 'Utbi oooferred praises on Mahmud,
Therefore he obtained the object of his desire.
Shaiaf was celebrated in the world,
Because he wrote the eulogy of Timur Q^rgan."
Although the compiler of this book, on account of his having
little knowledge and possessing no ability, withheld his tongue
from commencing the history of this renowned monarch's ex-
ploits and deeds, and did not allow the pen which possessed two
tongues to describe the character of this most prosperous king,
yet he always entertained that desire in his iaithful heart, and
the intention never forsook his mind. One night which was AiU
of light, this insignificant man (the author), having obtained the
honour of being present in His Majesty'^s Oourt at Ghr&lior, was
ordered to sit down, and the fingers of the generosity of that
sun of the heaven of glory opened the gates of kindness to him,
and the tongue of that king of kings, who was as dignified as
Alexander the Ghreat, pronounced these pleasing words : "It seems
proper and desirable that the inventions of my auspicious mind,
and the improvements of my enlightened understanding, should
be arranged in a series, and written down, in order that in future
Digitized by VjOOQIC
lis KHONDAlfhl
ages the light of these happy works may shine among the people
of countries near and remote.^ Consequently the writer, who was
wishing for a long time that such an order might pass, engaged,
like his pen, in writing these veiy interesting subjects; and
having commenced to mention the wonderful inyentions, he has
imparted eloquence to the pen which possesses two tongues. He
hopes that through the &your of the Almighty God, these pages,
which contain useful things, will meet the approbation of the
most clever characters of the high Court, and that they will view
these lines of the book of eloquence with the eye of acceptance,
and overlook the mistakes which may have been committed
therein by the deficient tongue of the pen.
Acceamn of Humdyitn.
In the beginning of Jum&da-l awwal, a.h. 937, when the
King, who was as dignified as Sulaim&n^ whose seat is now in
Paradise, viz. Zahfru-d din Muhammad B&bar, left the throne
of this world for the eternal heaven, the celestial herald of the
Supreme Lord raised the pleasing cry, '* We made you king on
the earth,''^ to the ears of this rightful prince, and the hand of
the kindness of the Creator of souls and substances put the
happy robe of royalty on the person of this able monarch, the
Conqueror of the World.
" The hope which was excited by prosperity is now realissed;
The desire which the world entertained is satisfied."
On Friday, the 9th of the said month, in the Jama* manjid
at Agra, the khutba was read in the name and title of this noble
king, and the noise of congratulations which arose from the crowd
of the people reached beyond the heavens.
Awginciom Omens.
Among the other wonderful accidents which happened to the
great Naw&b, one was that in the year in which the late king,
who was as dignified as Sulaim&n and destined to enter paradise.
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HUMiCTUN-NAMA. 119
marched with prosperity from K&bul towards Kandah&r, he left
this sun of the heayen of royalty and power (Humdydn) iu
trust of the goyemment duties. One day the latter rode on
his horse, and went to ramble about in the forest, hills, gardens,
and meadows. On the road he wished to take an omen, and
haying called the great Maul&na, Masfhu-d din Euhu-Ua, who
was his tutor, he told him it had just entered his mind that
he shoxdd ask any three persons who might first come before him
their names, and take an omen from them. The Maul&nd said it
would be proper if he asked only one man's name ; but the King
was firm in his resolution. After they had gone a little distance,
they saw a man about forty years of age ; and on their asking him
his name, he replied, *^Mur&d Khw&ja." After him another
person, driying an ass loaded with wood, came before them ; and
when they inquired of him for his name, he said, ''Daulat
Blhwija.'* On this it passed from the secret-telling tongue of
the Xing that if the name of the third person who might happen
to meet them should be Sa'&dat Ehw&ja, it might be considered a
yery curious accident ; and the star of success, according to the
omen, would rise from the horizon of prosperity. At this moment
a boy, who was leading cattle to graze, came in sight ; and when
they asked him what was his name, he answered, ^^Sa'&dat
Elhw&ja." This excited, of course, great wonder and surprise in
all the people who accompanied the King, and they were all sure
that this prosperous prince would soon, by the Divine assistance,
attain the highest pitch of fortune and glory ; and the hand of
the fayour of God would open to him the gates of success in all
his sacred and worldly hopes.
Clamfication of the People.
When the auspicious throne of royalty was filled by this
dignified and braye monarch, all the officers of the State and
inhabitants of the kingdom were divided into three classes. The
brothers and relations of the King, the nobles and ministers, as
well aa the military men, were called AhUi Daulat (officers of the ;
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120 KHONDAMnL
State), because it is evident that — ^according to the words, " There
can be no dominion without men ''^ — no degree of wealth and
prosperity can be attained without the assistance of this class of
braye and courageous people ; and no one can obtain the throne
and power without the aid of warriors and heroes.
" Kings, with the assistance of their army,
Place their feet upon the throne of empires.
He alone can obtain wealth and rank
Who is assisted by his army."
The holy persons, the great mwhaihhs (religious men), the
respectable saiyids^ the literati, the law officers, the scientific
persons, poets^ besides other great and respectable men, formed
the second class, and were denominated Ahl-i Sa^ddat (good
men), because to obserye, honour, and regard these people, and
to associate with such men, secures eternal prosperity, and enables
men to rise to high dignities and ranks.
" Virtue is the gift of Qod :
It is not in the power of the mighty man to obtain it.
If you wish to obtain fortune,
You must associate with virtuous men."
Those who possessed beauty and elegance, those who were
young and most lovely, also clever musicians and sweet singers,
composed the third class, and the appellation of Ahl-i Murdd
(people of pleasure) was conferred on them, because most people
take great delight in the company of such young-looking men,
of rosy cheeks and sweet voices, and are pleased by hearing their
songs, and the pleasing sound of the musical instruments, such
as the harp, the sackbut, and the lute.
" The hope of the heart of lovers
Is never realized but when they meet persons whose
oheeks are rosy.
He who is fond of hearing songs and musio
Has the gates of happiness opened for himself."
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HUMmm-NAMA. 121
Apportionment of Time.
According to this classification, the wise King also divided the
days of the week, and appointed one day for each of these three
chksses. Thns, Saturdays and Thursdays were fixed for pious
men, and visits were received on these days from literary and
religious persons. On these two days the tree of the hope of
this estimable body of the people produced the fruit of pro-
sperity by their obtaining audience in the paradise-resembling
Court. The reason why these two days were appointed for this
class was, that Saturday is ascribed to Saturn^ who is the pro-
tector of good and religious men and persons of old respectable
families ; and Thursday is appropriated to Jupiter, who is the
preserver of the saiyids, the learned men, and the strict followers
of the Muhammadan law. Sundays and Tuesdays were fixed
for the State officers ; and all the government business and duties
connected with the management of the country were discharged
on these days. The King, the destroyer of enemies, sat in the
public court, and consequently all the nobles and plebeians
were able to obtain the honour of seeing him. The advantage in
appointing these two days for opening the Court, and attending
to the State afiairs was, that Sunday belongs to the Sun, to
whom, according to the will of God, is attached the fates of all
rulers and kings; and Tuesday is the day of Mars, who is
the patron of warriors and brave men. Hence it is evident
that to adorn the throne of sovereignty in the public court-hall
by his royal sessions on these two days, and to devote himself
to the discharge of the government duties, was very proper.
Amongst the other customs which were introduced by this just
and generous King, and were observed on the days of the
sessions, one was, that when he adorned the throne of royalty
by sitting on it, drums were beaten, to inform the people, who,
immediately on hearing their noise, came to see him ; and when
he left the Court, the gunners fired guns to let the people know
that they might retire. Also on those days the keeper of the
Digitized by VjOOQIC
122 EHONDAMTB.
wardrobe used to bring some suits of fine apparel, and the
treasurer several purses of money, and they placed them in the
Court in order that rewards and robes might be given to any one
from them, and no delay should take place. Also that seyeral
persons who resembled Bahr&m, having put on coats of mail, and
taken blood-drinking swords in their hands, stood before the throne
tQ seize and punish those who might be proved guilty. Mondays
and Wednesdays were allotted for pleasure parties, and on these
days some of the old companions and chosen friends were con-
vened, and a band of musicians and singers was called, and they
were all satisfied in their wishes. The cause of appointing these
days for this purpose was, that Monday is the day of the Moon,
and Wednesday of Mercury 5 and it was therefore reasonable
that on these days he should keep company with young men
beautiful as the moon, and hear sweet songs and delightful music.
On Fridays, as the name (juma*) imports, he called together
all the assemblies, and sat with them as long as he found leisure
from his other duties.
Symboh of Office.
Another invention of this King was, that he got three arrows
of gold made, and called them each after the name of the
three classes above mentioned. Each of these was given to one
of the most confidential persons of the respective classes, and this
person was to manage all the afiairs of that class. As long as
the man who was entrusted with the arrow conducted the duties
attached to him with such care as to insure the pleasure of God
and satisfaction of the King, he was mainUuned in the trust. But
when he was intoxicated by the efiect of the wine of arrogance
and pride, or when his foresight was obscured by the dimness of
negligence, and he did not look after his business, but through
his misfortune thought only of collecting riches, then the arrow
of his wishes failed to hit the point of success, and he was
ordered to be removed from office by the pen of destiny for his
insolent deeds. * * *
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HUMjrnrN.NAMA. 128
Oradaiums qf Bank.
Among the customs introduced by this King, one was, that of
the distribution of arrows, by means of which the distinction
of ranks and stations among serrants of the throne was marked.
Hie pen of eloquence thus writes a fiiU detail of this particular
head. According to the different standards of gold, the ranks
of all the people composing the three classes were divided into
twelve orders or arrows, and every one received a grade and
rank suitable to himself. The twelfth arrow, which was made
of the purest gold, was put in the auspicious quiver of this
powerful King, and nobody could dare to touch it. The eleventh
wrow belonged to His Majesty^s relations and brethren, and all
the Sult&ns who were in the government employ. Tenth, to
the great mushaikhs, saii/tds^ and the learned and religious men.
Ninth, to the great nobles. Eighth, to the courtiers and some
of the King'^s personal attendants. Seventh, to the attendants i
in general. Sixth, to the harems and to the well-behaved female*
attendants. Fifth, to young maid-servants. Fourth, to the
treasurers and stewards. Third, to the soldiers. Second, to
the menial servants. First, to the palace guards, camel-drivers,
and the like. Each of these arrows or orders had three grades ;
the highest, the middle, and the lowest.
Government D^artments.
Another of the arrangements of this King was, that he divided
all the affairs of government into four departments, after the
number of the four elements, viz. the Ataahi, JIawdi, Abi^ and
JKhdki; and for conducting the business of these departments he
appointed four ministers. The department to which belonged
the artillery and the making of arms, weapons of war, and
various sorts of engines and other such things in which assistance
was taken from fire, was called A'taaM ; and the superintendence
of this department was placed under Khw&ja 'Amidu-1 Mulk,
and the fire of his care inflamed the ovens of the hearts of those
Digitized by CjOOQIC
124 KHONDAMTR.
who were employed on these works. The duties connected with
the wardrobe, kitchen, stable, and other great and important offices
belonged to the Hawdi department, and the care of them was
entrusted to Khwaja Lutf-uUa. The Sharbat-ihana, Sdji-khdna^
the digging of canals, and all the works which related to water
and rivers, were comprised in the Ahi department, and its super-'"
intendent was Ehw&ja Hasan. Agriculture, erection of buildings,
resumption of Khdlka lands, and some household affairs formed
a department which was called Khdkiy and this was placed under
the management of Khw&ja Jal&lu-d din Mirz& Beg. Formerly
one of the nobles was ordered to look after each department.
For instance, Amir N&sir Euli supervised the fire department,
and he always used to put on red clothes. After his death, the
cypress of the garden of dignity and grandeur, Mir Nih&l, was
appointed to the same duty. But in the days when the com-
piler wrote these pages, the supervision of all the four depart-
ments was entrusted to the care of the best of nobles, the most
learned man. Amir Wais Muhammad.
Building of IHnpandh.
Another great work of this just and generous King was the
city of Dinpan&h, which was really the asylum of religious men.
The musk-resembling pen perfumes the minds of good people by
writing an account of its foundation. In the month of Sha'b&n,
A.H. 939 (1533 A.D.), when the fort of Gw&lior was made the
object of envy to the high revolving heavens by the royal presence,
the great King one night sat there on the Imperial throne, and
having ordered all his great courtiers and learned companions to
sit down, conversed with them on various topics. In this discourse
he poured from his tongue the secrets of the pearls of these
words, that long time since it was his intention to found near
the capital of Dehli a large city, the ramparts of which from their
loftiness might open the tongue of reproach and scorn at
Khawamak and Sawir, the palaces of Bahr&m, and that the
keeper of its bastions might claim equality with Saturn. Also
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HUMATITN-NAMA. 125
that in this city a magnificent palace of seyen storeys should
be erected, surrounded by delightful gardens and orchards, of such
elegance and beauty, that its &me might draw people from the
remotest comers of the world for its inspection. That the city
should be the asylum of wise and intelligent persons, and be
called Dinpan&h. Those who were present in the assembly
which resembled paradise, opened their tongues in approba-
tion and applause of such a scheme. At the same time, it was
discoyered by the most witty and cleyer Maulfin& Shahfibu-d din
Ahmad Mu'amm&i, that the numerical yalue of the words
Shahr-i pddshdh Dinpandh was 940, and he said that if the city
were built in that year it would be a yery remarkable fact. The
same moment these words were brought to the notice of the
£ing, who, as well as all the officers of the high Court, was
greatly struck with them. All persons that were present at the
time began to sing with their tongues the following stanza before
His Majesty^ who understood the excellencies of poetry well :
''The picture which your imagination draws on your mind,
Nothing contrary to it is done by the hand of destiny.
What your understanding writes on a leaf
Agrees with the book of the WiU of God."
In short, the King accordingly fixed the resolution in his en-
lightened mind. After, under the protection of the Almighty
God, he had returned from Gw&Iior to ^gra, he turned the reins
of his world-trayelling horse, in the beginning of the month of
Zi-1 hijja, A.H. 939, towards the city of Dehli. When he had
reached the city, which was as beautiful as heayen, safe under the
care of God from all eyils, and had taken omens and religious
adyice, a rising ground adjacent to the banks of the stream
of Jumna, about three koB from the city, was selected for the
foundation of the city of Dinpan&h.
In the middle of the month of the sacred Muharram, a.h. 940,
at an hour which was prescribed by the most cleyer astrologers
and the greatest astronomers, all the great musAaikhs (religious
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126 EHOKDAMIB.
men) the respectable saiyids^ the learned persons, and all the
elders of the city of Dehli, accompanied the King, ii?ho was as
generous as the ocean, to the spot, prayed the Almighty God
to finish the happy foundation of that city, and to strengthen
the basis of the King's wealth. First, His Majesty with his
holy hand put a brick on the earth, and then each person from
that conconrse of great men placed a stone on the ground^ and
they all made such a crowd there that the army, people, and the
artists, masons, and labourers found no room or time to carry
stones and mud to the spot. On the same date work was also
commenced in the Eing^s own palace.
At this time, ue. the latter part of the month of Shaww&l of
the same year, the walls, bastions, ramparts, and the gates of the
city of Dinpan&h are nearly finished.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
127
Xxxvii.
T^RfKH.! RASHror
OP
HAIDAB MIRZA DOGHLAT.
[The writer of this Talaable work was the son of Muhammad
Husain Mirzd, who was the eldest son of Haidar Mirzi Doghlat,
Amir of K&shghar. Muhammad Husain married the younger
sister of the Emperor Bihar's mother. So our author, Haidar
Mira&, was first cousin of B&bar, and he seems to have inherited
from his mother no small share of that ability and vigour whieh
distinguished his more eminent relative. His fiither, Muhammad
Husain, was put to death at Hir&t in 914 (1508 a.d.), under
the orders of Shaib&ni Eh&n. Haidar Mirzi himself was also
doomed, but he was concealed and saved In the following year
B&bar sent for him to E&bul, and there received him with con-
siderate and generous affection, of which the Mirz& speaks in the
warmest terms of gratitude. '* It was a sad day,^ says he,
"that deprived me of my &ther; but, through the unremitting
kindness of the Emperor, I never felt the loss. * * During the
whole time of my stay with him, he always conducted himself
towards me with parental observance and affection.''
Haidar Mirzi was as bold and adventurous as B&bar himself
and played a notable part in widely distant places. He
was actively engaged as a military leader in Badakhsh&n and
!E&shghar, and seems to have there given proo& of eminent
military talents. Nor was he at all deficient in that literary
ability which distinguished his cousin. He saw much, and he
observed and recorded what passed under his own eyes, and what
he learnt from diligent inquiry. ^^ The TdrikA^i Bashidi/* says
Digitized by VjOOQIC
128 HAIDAB MIBZA.
Mr. Erskine,^ well deserres to be published in the original or
translated. It is the production of a learned and accomplished
man ; and, in the two latter parts, of a contemporary, intimately
acquainted with the men and events he describes.''
"The history of the Khans of the Mughals, and of the
Amirs of K&shghar, subsequent to Timur Tnghlik Kh&n, forms
the proper subject of the first two books. These details are the
more valuable as the succession of the Mughal Kh&ns and of
the Amirs of K&shghar from that period is not contained in any
other work with which I am acquainted." In the writer's own
time, " Central Asia was in a transition state, which ended in
the settlement of the Uzbeks in Transoxiana, of the Kirghiz
confederacy in Mughalist&n, and of the Ghaghat&i Turks in
India. The minute details which the author gives of his own
sufferings, and of the sufferings of his nearest relations, during
the period that followed the ascendancy of Shaib&ni Kh&n in
M&war&u-n nahr and Khur&san, of their escapes, adventures,
successes, and discomfitures, let us more into the condition of the
country and ^feelings of the inhabitants of these states and of
K&ahghar at that crisis, than perhaps any other monument
extant. A portion of the last book relates to the history of
Kashmir and Hindust&n, and the whole work is interspersed
with geographical accounts of countries, especially to the east of
M&war&u-n nahr, little known in Europe. The rise^and fall of
several tribes, or associations of tribes, in the desert, are recorded
with much clearness and a perfect acquaintance with their ex-
ternal and internal policy. It would form a most valuable
accompaniment to the Commentaries of Bfibar, which it illos-
trates in every page. The two royal cousins are worthy of each
other, and do honour to their age."
Haidar Mirz&^s notices of India are fragmentary, and are con-
fined to what passed under his own observation ; but they give a
vivid picture of the disorder and incapacity which marked the
early reign of Hum&yun, and were the causes of his downfall. In
1 SeeYol. I.,p. 193.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABrKH-I EASHIDr. 129
the course of his adyentorous life Haidar Mirz& had served in
Kashmir, and while he was acting as goyemor of Lahore on behalf
of Prince E&mr&n, a number of malcontent nobles of that conntrj
endeaYoiired to obtain his aid in dethroning their unpopular
ruler. He entered warmly into the project, but the troubles of
Hindust&n delayed its execution. After passing into the service
of Hum&yun, and witnessing the disastrous rout of Elanauj,
described in one of the following Extracts, he endeavoured to
induce Hum&yun to secure a refuge and a vantage-ground in
Kashmir. The Emperor was inclined to follow his advice, and
sent some forces to enter upon the conquest of that country. But
his plans were thwarted by his brother K&mr&n, and he was
compelled to fly beyond the Indus. Haidar Mirz& soon showed
the practicability of the advice he had tendered. With a force
of only 4000 men he marched against Kashmir, and evading the
troops drawn up to oppose him, he made his way secretly by
unfrequented routes to Srinagar the capital, and captured it
without opposition in Bajab, 947 (November, 1640). The whole
country fell into his possession, and he successfully resisted the
attempts of the dethroned prince to recover his kingdom, although
Sher Sh&h aided the exile. Haidar Mirz& ruled the land which
he had won with great wisdom and ability, and so recruited its
resources that it was restored to prosperity and happiness. He
reigned for eleven years, and was eventually killed in a night
attack by a party of conspirators in 958 (1551 a.d.). To his
honour be it recorded, he did not in his prosperity forget his
unfortunate kinsman the Emperor Hum&yun, but urged him to
come to Kashmir, and to make that country a paint cCappui for
the recovery of his lost empire.
The MS. used is a small 4to. belonging to the Nawab of
Jhajjhar, containing 729 pages, of fourteen lines each. There is
a transcript of this MS. among Sir H. Elliot'^d MSS. It seems
to differ occasionally from the MS. used by Mr. Erskine, as may
be seen by comparing the following Extracts with those given by
Mr. Erskine.]
VOL. T. 9
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130 HAIDAB MIRZA.
EXTRACTS.
Defeat of Humdyitn at Kanauj.
. [When all the brothers were assembled, they conferred together
upon the state of affairs. The discussion was protracted, but no
profitable decision was arrived at ; in fact, nothing was proposed
that was worthy of the occasion, for as it is said, *^When
Fortune ^s adverse, minds are perverse.'*^ K&mr&n Mirz& was
very anxious to return, but Humayun disregarded all his' repre-
sentations. Seven months were wasted in weary indecision, until
the opportunity was lost, and Sher Eh&n was on the Ganges
ready for war. In the midst of this concision K&mr&n Mirz&
became very ill. The climate of Hindustan had brought on some
serious disorders.^ When he had thus suffered for two or three
months, he lost the use of his hands and feet. As no medicine or
treatment relieved him, he became the more desirous of depart-
ing to Lahore. At length his maladies so increased, that he
made up his mind to return thither. This departure of E&mr6n
Mirzd was the turning-point in the rise of Sher Eh&n and the
downfall of the Ghaghat&i power. The Emperor greatly urged
him to leave some of his officers and forces as auxiliaries, but
E&mr&n Mirz&, on the contrary, did all he could to induce all the
men of A!gra to go away with him, and strenuously rejected the
proposal to leave his own army behind. Mir Ehw&ja Eal&n,
who was his prime minister, also exerted himself to the same
purpose. K&mr&n Mirz& sent him on in advance, and then
followed in person.
While this was passing, Sher Eh&n advanced to the banks of
the Ganges, and passed his army over. Kutb Kh&n, his son,
marched towards Et&wa and K&lpi. These territories were the
ikta's of Husain Sult&n, who was one of the Uzbek Sult&ns, and
Y&dg&r N&sir Mirz&, son of N&ir Mirz&, the brother of the
Emperor B&bar. Part of K&lpi belonged to E&mr&n Mirzi,
and he had sent to that district Iskandar Sult&n as his represen-
tative. These three persons marched against Eutb Eh&n, who
^ [The TariouB oomplioatioiis are specified.]
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TABrKH-I BASHror. 131
was slain in the battle^ and they gained a complete victoiy.
The Emperor now marched fix)m i^gra towards the Ganges
against Sher Eh&n. [The writer goes on to explain at length
his reasons for learing E&mr&n, and joining the Emperor.]
Althoogh Min& K&mr&n would not consent to my parting from
him, I remained behind withont his consent. £&mr&n Mirza
himself, shamefully learing only Iskandar Sult&n with about
1000 men as auxiliaries, went off to Lahore, taking with him all
the men of Agra he could carry with him ; thus giving strength
to the enemy and preparing defeat for his friends. The Imperial
army reached the banks of the Oanges in the best way that* it
could. There it encamped and lay for about a month, the
Emperor being on one side of the rirer, and Sher Kh4n on the
other, facing each other. The armies may have amounted to
more than 200,000 men. Muhammad Sult&n Mirz&, of the
house of Timur, and grandson by a daughter of Sultdn Husain
(of Khnr&B&n), had come to India to wait upon the Emperor
B&bar, and had been received with every mark of kindness and
kingly favour. After Bdbar's death he had several times revolted
against Hum&yun ; but being imsuccessfiil, he had sought forgive-
ness, and had been pardoned. Now having colluded with Sher
Eh&n, he deserted. A new way was thus opened. Everybody
began to desert, and the most surprising part of it was, that
many of those who deserted did not go over to Sher Kh&n, and
80 could expect no &vour from him. A heated feeling ran
through the army, and the cry was, ** Let us go and rest in our
own homes/' A number also of K&mr&n's auxiliary forces
deserted and fled to Lahore.
Among the equipments which were in the train of the Emperor
were 700 carriages {gardun)y each dawn by four pairs of bullocks,
and carrying a swivel {zarb-zan), which discharged a ball (kalola)^
of 500 miskdla weight. I myself several times saw that from
the top of an eminence they unfailingly (be-khatd) struck horse-
men who slightly and unsuspectingly exposed themselves. And
there were twenty-one carriages, each drawn by eight pairs of
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132 HAIDAB MIRZA.
bullocks. Stone balls were of no use in these, but the shots
were of molten brass, and weighed 5000 miakdls^ and the cost of
each was 200 miskdb of silver. They would strike anything
that was visible at the distance of a paraeang.
As the army had taken to desert, it was judged better to risk
a battle than to see it go to ruin without fighting. If the result
was un&vourable, in that case we could not at least be accused of
having abandoned an empire like Hindtist&n without striking a
blow. Another consideration was, that if we passed the river,
desertion would be no longer possible. We therefore crossed over.
•Both armies entrenched themselves. Every day skirmishes
occurred between the adventurous swaggering spirits of both
sides. These proceedings were put an end to by the monsoon
rains, which came on and flooded the ground, rendering it unfit
for a camp* To move was indispensable. Opinions were eKpressed
that another such a deluge would sink the whole army in the
abyss of despair, and it was proposed to move to a rising ground
which the inundation could not reach, and which lay in firont of
the enemy. I went to reconnoitre, and found a place suitable
for the purpose. I said that we would on the morrow try the
enemy on the touchstone of experience, for he ought not to
attack while we were on the march, as the arraying of an army
at the time of marching is contrary to sound judgment.^ The
morrow was the 10th of Muharram, and we must keep our
forces well under control until we see if the enemy comes
out of his trenches and advances against us. Then at last a
regular pitched battle will be fought between us. The proper
plan for us is to place the mortars {deg) and swivels (zarb-zan)
in front; and the gunners, nearly 6000 in number, must be
Mr. Erakine or bb MS. makes better sense of this passage, bat the words of our MS.
will not admit of the interpretation. His Tersion runs thus : <^ I represented that
when we did march, it would be desirable to divert the attention of the enemy by
engaging them in skirmishes, as it would not do to be drawn into a general action,
when the army was marching to change its ground."]
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TABrKH.I EASHrDr. 133
stationed with the guns. If he does eome out to attack us, there
is no time or place more suitable than this for battle. If he does
not come out of his entrenchments, we must remain drawn up
till about mid-day, and then return to our position. Next day
we must act just in the same way. Then the baggage must move
to the new position, and we must follow and occupy the place.
This scheme of mine met with general approbation.
On the 10th Muharram, 949 h., we mounted to carry the plan
into effect, and formed our array. As had been determined, the
carriages {gardUn) and mortars {de^ and small guns {tapakckiydn)
were placed in the centre. The command of the guns was given
to Muhammad Eh&n Bdmi, the sons of Ust&d 'Ali EuK, Ust&d
Ahmad Bdmi, and Husain Khalifa. They placed the carriages
and mortars (deg) in their proper positions, and stretched chains
between them. In other divisions there were amirs of no repute,
men who were amirs only in name. They had got possession of
the country, but they had not a tincture of prudence or know-
ledge, or energy or emulation, or nobility of mind or generosity
^-qualities from which nobility draws its name. The Emperor
had posted the author of this work upon his left, so that his
right flank should be on the Emperor's left. In the same
position he had placed a force of chosen troops. On my left, all
my retainers were stationed. I had 400 chosen men, inured to
war&re and familiar with battle, fifty of whom were mounted
on horses accoutred with armour. Between me and the river
(Jid'bdr) there was a force of twenty-seven amirs, all of whom
carried the tigh banner. In this position, also, were the other
components of the left wing, and they must be judged of by the
others. On the day of battle, when Sher Kh&n, having formed his
divisions, marched out, of all these twenty-seven t&gh banners
not one was to be seen, for the great nobles had hidden them in
the apprehension that the enemy might advance upon them.
The soldiership and bravery of the amirs may be conceived from
this exhibition of courage.
Sher Kh&n came out in five divisions of 1000 men each, and
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134 HAIDAB MfBZA.
in advance of him {peshtar i o) were 3000 men. I estimated the
whole as bebg less than 15,000, but I calculated the Ghaghat&i
force as about 40,000, all mounted on tipchdk horses, and clad
in iron armour. They suited like the waves of the sea, but the
courage of the amira and officers of the army was such as I have
described. When Sher Kh&n's army came out of its entrench-
ments, two divisions (jauk), which seemed to be equal to four
divisions, drew up in that place, and three divisions advanced
against their opponents. On our side I was leading the centre,
to take up the position which I had selected; but when we
reached the ground, we were unable to occupy it : for every amir
and wazir in the Ghaghat&i army, whether he be rich or poor,
has his ghuldms. An amir of note with his 100 retainers and
followers has 500 servants and ghuldms^ who in the day of
battle render no assistance to their master and have no control
over themselves. So in whatever place there was a conflict, the
ghuldms were entirely ungovernable. When they lost their
masters, they were seized with panic, and blindly rushed about
in terror.^ In short it was impossible to hold our ground. They
so pressed upon us in the rear, that they drove the centre upon
the chains stretched between the chariots, and they and the
soldiers dashed each other npon them. Those who were behind
so pressed upon those who were in front, that they broke through
the chains. The men who were posted by the chains were driven
beyond it, and the few who remained behind were broken, so
that all formation was destroyed.
Such was the state of the centre. On the right Sher Eh&n
advanced in battle array; but before an arrow was discharged, the
camp followers fled like chaff before the wind, and breaking the
line they all pressed towards the centre. The ghuldms whom
the commanders had sent to the front rushed to the lines of
chariots, the whole array was broken, and the mir was separated
from his men, and the men from the mir. While the centre
was thus thrown into disorder, all the fugitives from the right
^ [Thia idea is expressed by a simile borrowed from fiilconry.]
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TABrKH-I EASHror. 135
bore down upon it. So before the enemy had discharged an
arrow, the whole army was scattered and defeated. I had
estimated the Ghaghatai army as numbering 40,000 men, ex-
cluding the camp followers (ghuldm) and workmen {ahdgird'
pesha). They fled before 10,000 men, and Sher Eh&n gained
a victory, and the Ghaghat&is were defeated in this battle-field
where not a man, either friend or foe, was wounded. Not a gun
was fired, and the chariots {gard&n) were useless.
When the Ghaghat&is took to flight, the distance between
their position and the Ganges might be nearly Vkparasang. All
the afMr% and braves {boAddurdn) fled for safety to the river,
without a man of them having received a wound. The enemy
pursued them, and the Ghaghat&is, having no time to throw off
their armour and coats, plunged into the river. The breadth of
the river might be about five bowshots. Many illustrious amirt
were drowned, and each one remained or went on at his will.
When we came out of the river. His Majesty, who at mid-day
had 17,000 workmen in attendance upon his Gourt, was mounted
upon a horse which had been given to him by Tardi Beg, and
had nothing on his head or feet. *' Permanence is from God,
and dominion is from God." Out of 1000 retainers, eight
persons came out of the river; the rest had perished in the
water. The total loss may be estimated from this fact. When
we reached i^ra, we made no tarry, but, broken and dispirited,
in a state heart-rending to relate, we went on to Lahore. On
the new moon of Babfu-l awwal, 947 h., the princes, amirs^
and people had drawn together at Lahore. The throng was so
great that it w«a difficult to move about, and still more difficult
to find a lodging. Every one acted as his fears or his interests
led him.]
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136
xxxvni.
TAZKIRATU-L W^KI'^T
OF
JAUHAB.
Thesb are the private Memoirs of the Emperor Hum&ydn
written by his dftdbcU^ or ewer-bearer, Jauhar. They have been
translated into English by Major Stewart, and published by the
Oriental Translation Fund Lond. (1832). [The MS. used by
Stewart bore the above title, under which the work has become
generally known, but in Sir H. Elliot's copy of the MS. the author
is made to name the work HutnAyun ShdhL It is also called
Tdrikh'i Humdyin."] These Memoirs afford much amusement
from the naive and simple style in which they are written. The
author was a constant attendant upon the Emperor, both during
his adversities and successes, and is so devoted an admirer of
his patron, that he rarely sees anything to reproach in his con-
duct. He gives the most trivial details with the utmost candour
and gravity, thinking nothing too insignificant to relate of so
great an Emperor, *' Let no one,^ says Dion, after recording
(lib. Ixxii. 18, 18) some of the public exposures and debaucheries
of Gommodus — '* Let no one reprove me for degrading the im-
portance of history because I write such thingsi In another
case I would not have written them ; but since they were done by
an Emperor^ and I myself saw and heard them, I thought it right
to conceal nothing, and to transmit these matters for the in-
formation of posterity, as if they had been of the utmost
consequence.''
Of himself Jauhar says, ^* I was at all times, and in all
stations^ in constant attendance on the royal person ; it there-
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TAZKIEATU-L WAKI'AT. 137
fore oeeurred to me as desirable that I should write a narrative
of all the events to which I had been an eye-witness, that it
may remain as a record of the past interesting occurrences. I
have endeavoured to explain them to the best of my humble
ability, although in a style very inferior to the dignity of the
subject. I commenced this work in the year 995 (a.d. 1587),
and have named it the TazkircUu-l WdkCdt^ ' Relation of Occur-
rences/ It is not my intention to narrate all the occurrences
which have taken place during the late reign, but I shall confine
myself to those operations in which His Majesty was personally
eoneemed. I shall therefore commence this work with I[um&-
yun's ascending the throne, and shall conclude with his return
from Persia and his regaining the sovereignty. I shall further
explain with what fortitude and perseverance the Emperor en-
countered so many hardships and difiSiculties, and through the
fiivour of the Almighty God, thereby recovered his dominions,
in the hope that this book may hand down the name of the
author to posterity, and inform mankind of these extraordinary
events.**
[The Memoirs bear all the appearance of truth and honesty,
and are to a great degree exempt from that exaggeration and
fulsome eulogy to which Oriental biographers are prone. But
the fact of their having been commenced full thirty years after
the death of Hum&ydn greatly diminishes their claim to be
considered a faithful and exact account of the occurrences they
record. They are not contemporary records of the events as
they occurred, but reminiscences of more than thirty years'
standing, so that, whatever the sincerity and candour of the
writer, time must have toned down his impressions, and memory
had doubtless given a favourable colour to the recollections he
retained of a well-beloved master. The conversations and obser-
vations attributed to the various personages who figure in his
Memoirs must therefore contain quite as much of what the
author thought they might or ought to have said as of what
really was uttered.
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138 JAUHAR.
When Hum&jdn recoyered Lahore, he immediately divided
the appointments of the province among his adherents, and
Jauhar was appointed collector of the Tillage of Haibatpdr.
Before he departed, the King told him a familiar story as a
warning against extortion. Jauhar made a courtly reply, and
proceeded to his charge. Fpon arriving in the district, he
found that it had been the custom of the A%h&n &rmerB to
give their wives or children in pledge to the EQndd bankers for
money advanced on account of the collections. Therefore, the
first thing he did was to collect all the grain that had been
hidden in dry pits, and having sold it, he paid the bankers and
liberated the &milies of the peasants! On hearing of this affair.
His Majesty was much pleased, and promoted him to the col-
lectorship of the villages belonging to the Afgh&n chief, T&t&r
Kh&n Lodi. Soon after he had an opportunity of displaying
his energy and determination. The Panj&b having been left
without troops, in consequence of Hum&ydn's onward march,
a body of 400 Afgh&ns entered the province of Lahore, and
began to plunder. The collectors met to consult, and by
Jauhar^s advice they collected all the men they could, and
placing themselves under the command of a brave and active
young man, they fell upon them by surprise, defeated them,
and took five of their chiefe prisoners. Jauhar does not tell us
what position he held when he wrote his Memoirs, but it is
evident that he became a man of some mark. Ab6-1 Fazl men-
tions his appointment to the district of Haibatp6r, and aabse-
quently speaks of him as ^^Mihtar Jauhar, treasurer of the
Panjdb."]
EXTRACTS.
HumdyUfC% conquest of CAundr.
His Majesty then inquired fit>m his ministers and nobles what
intelligence there was of Sher Kh&n Afgh&n, where he was,
what he was doing, and what he was intent nponP He was
informed that Sher Kh&n had taken the fort of Boht&s and
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TAZKIRATU-L WAKI'AT. 139
Bahrkunda, that he had been for some time besieging the capital
of Bengal, and was upon the point of taking it. Upon hearing
this untoward news, His Majesty exclaimed to his nobles, *' To
what a pitch the daring of these Afgh&ns has reached ; please
Gk>d, we will to-morrow march to the fort of Ghun&r." His
Majesty then questioned Btimi Kh&n as to the powers of resist-
ance of the fortress, and he replied that by the Emperor's good
fortune, and the favour of the Almighty, they would take the
fortress by force. Thereupon the Imperial forces marched to-
wards Chun&r, and on the Shab-i hardt they came to five ko%
distance from the fort. The engineer (Rumi Kh&n) then debated
with himself how he could find out the exact condition of the
fortress, what bastion he ought to attack, and on which side
he should mine. He had a slave named Khal&f&t, whom in
furtherance of his plan he so flogged that the weals were visible
upon his body. He then directed him to go into the fortress,
and say that he was the slave of Bdmi Kh&n, and that his
master had so beaten him without any cause that he had fled
and sought protection with them. So he was to find out the
particulars of the fortress and return. He acted in accordance
with these instructions. When the Afgh&ns saw his condition,
and the marks of the chastisement plainly visible on his body,
they believed him, and strove to heal his wounds. One day
the slave proposed to the Afgh&ns, that if they saw no objection
they should show him the defences of the fortress, and he would
advise as to the best means of resisting the guns which Bdmi
£h&n had planted, so that the garrison might be safe. The .
A%h&ns complied with this proposition. After staying a few
days in the fortress, and making his observations, the slave made
his escape, and returned to his master, whom he acquainted with
the exact condition of the fortress. He advised him to attack
the bastion on the river-side, and to construct a mine on that
same side. Bumi Kh&n brought up his guns, and battered
that bastion, and he placed other batteries under his various
officers. • • ♦
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140 JATIHAR.
Bdm( Eb&n then sought His Majesty's permission to con-
stmct a floating battery, by means of which he proposed t^ cot
the garrison off from the water, and prevent them from being
able to maintain life. The royal order was given for him to do
what he deemed expedient. Under this authority he employed
himself for six months in constructing a battery upon three
boats, so high that on the top of it all the soldiers of the gar-
rison were plainly discernible. When it was completed, he
sought the royal authority to move his battery, make it fast to
the fortress, and carry the place by storm. Permission being
given, the attack was kept up till mid-day, and the royal army
lost nearly 700 men. For all their efforts they could not take
the place, and the garrison by their fire smashed one portion of
the battery.^ Next morning Btimi Kh&n again prepared his
battery. The Afgh&ns saw that the assailants were resolute
and vigorous, and that the place must soon fall, so they pnx-
posed to capitulate. Under His Majesty's command the garrison
marched out, and the royal forces took possession of the fortress.
B6mi Elh&n, being very irate and furious, cut off both hands of
300 gunners and others who had formed part of the garrison.
When His Majesty was informed of this, he was very angry
with Biimf £h&n, and declared that no injury ought to be
inflicted on men who had surrendered. After the capture of the
fort a grand banquet was given and great rejoicings were made ;
rewards were distributed and great honours were bestowed. His
Majesty then asked Riimi Kh&n as to the fortress and to the
way he would deal with it. The Sh&n replied, that if the place
were in his hands he would not allow a Beng&li to approach
within a ko% of it. And upon His Majesty asking who ought to
be placed in command of it, he replied, that he knew of no one
fit for the position but Beg Mirak. Upon this advice His
Majesty placed Beg MIrak in command of the fortress. This
counsel so incensed all the nobles against B6mi Kh&n, that
^ [Mukhdlifdn ax nutrdtih'i ior^hob mikddr'i yak tar-kobrd basarb-i aang dmr hmm
ihikoittaid,'}
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TAZnBATU-L WAKTAT, 141
they conspired against him, and caused poison to be placed in his
enp, BO that he died«
Sumdf/iin in Bengal.^
The King mored forward with the whole army, and in four
days with little difficulty took possession of Gaur, the capital of
Bengal, and drove away all the Afghans. After cleansing and
repairing the city, the first act of His Majesty was to divide the
province into jdgirs among his officers ; after which he very
unaccountably shut himself up in his harem, and abandoned
himself to every kind of indulgence and luxury. While the
King had thus for several months given himself up to pleasure
and indolence, information was at length conveyed to him that
Sher Khfin had killed 700 Mughals, had laid siege to the
fortress of Ghun&r, and taken the city of Benares ; and had
also sent forward an army along the bank of the Ghmges to
take Eanauj ; that he had further seized the &milies of several
of the officers, and sent them prisoners to Boht&s.
Defeat of Humdydn at CMipa-ghdt.^
As soon as the peace was concluded, the treacherous Sher
'Kh&a summoned his principal officers and said to them, ^^ Is
there any of you brave enough to go and storm the Mughal
eampP" At first not one of the Afgh&n officers would under-
take the task. At length a person called Khawds Eh&n ' said,
** If he would give him a detachment of good soldiers and a
number of war-elepbants, he would attempt it, and exert himself
to the utmost ;*" adding, '' this is a business of chance; but let
us see to whom God will give the victory.*"
Sher Eh&n was much pleased with Khaw&s Kh&n's proposal,
and gave him his choice of all the troops and several war-
elephants; but although the detachment marched from the
1 [Stewart^ p. 13.]
* [Stewart's Traiulatioii, p. 17.]
> [Of the JChd9ia-kAaa.^}AS.]
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142 JAUHAE.
camp at ten o'clock of the morning,^ the artful general loitered
about till night. In the mean time Shaikh Ehalil sent oflf a
messenger to His Majesty, cautioning him to be on his guard ;
but " when fete descends, caution is vain."" • • ♦
The King would not believe the information, or that Sher
Eh&n would be guilty of such a breach of honour and religion,
and passed the night without taking any precautions. But just
as the sun rose next morning, the Afgh&ns entered the rear of
our encampment, made a dreadful uproar, and caused the greatest
confasion both among the troops and followers. His Majesty, on
hearing the noise, ordered the kettle-drums to be beaten, and in a
short time about 300 cavalry assembled around him. In a few
minutes one of the enemy's war-elephants approached; on which
His Majesty made a sign to Mir Bajka, who was celebrated for
his valour, and who with his two sons, Garg ^Ali and Tatta Beg,
one of whom carried the [King's double-barrelled gun and the
other the royal spear, to attack the elephant; but as none of
them had the heart to do it, His Majesty snatched the spear
from the hand of Garg 'All, spurred on his horse, and struck
the elephant with such force on the forehead that he could not
draw out the spear again. In the mean time an archer who was
seated on the elephant discharged an arrow, which wounded the
King in the arm, and the enemy began to surround him. His
Majesty then called to his troops to advance and charge the
enemy, but no one obeyed ; and the Afgh&ns having succeeded
in throwing everything into confusion, one of the King'^s followers
came up, seized his bridle, and said, " There is no time to be
lost ; when your friends forsake you, flight is the only remedy."
The King then proceeded to the bank of the river, and although
followed by one of his own elephants,^ he urged his horse into
the stream, but in a short time the horse sank. On seeing
1 [The MS. sayB, namdz^i digar, " afternoon prayer."]
' [The MS. says, << He came to the bank of the river, and his elephant Oard-^dM
was along with him. He ordered the elephant-driver to break down the bridge, and
then he urged his horse into the stream, with the intention of swimming over ; bat
the current was rapid, and the horse was carried away £rom him."]
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TAZKIBATU.L WXKI'AT. 143
this eyent, a water-carrier, who had distended his leathern bag
(maaai) with air, offered it to His Majesty, who by means of the
bag swam the rirer. On reaching the northern bank, he asked
the man his name ; he said, ^' Niz&m.^' The King replied, '^ I
will m^Le your name as celebrated as that of Niz&mu-d din
Aaliya (a &mons saint), and you shall sit on my throne.'^ • • «
Soon after the King had remoanted his throne, the water-
carrier who had enabled him to cross the Gkmges paid his
respects; and His Majesty, remembering his royal promise,
seated him for two hoars upon the throne, and desired him to
ask for whatever he wished.
Mumdyiin's defeat at Kanauj\^
After the battle had raged for some time, information was
brought to His Majesty that the Prince Hindal had discomfited
the Afghans opposed to him, but that the left under 'Askari was
compelled to retreat. Mirz& Haidar represented that in order
to let the fugitives pass, it was requisite to loose the chains of
the carriages {^ardba)^ which formed a barricade in front of the
centre. His Majesty unfortunately complied with this advice,
and the chains being unloosed, the runaways passed through the
line of carriages in files.
During this time, an Afgb&n clothed in black advanced and
struck the King's horse on the forehead with a spear, on which
the animal turned round and became unmanageable.'
His Majesty afterwards related that as soon as he could
control his horse, he saw the Afgh&ns employed in plundering
the carriages, and wished to have charged them, but some person
caught the reins of the steed, and led him to tbe bank of the
river. Here, while undetermined how to act, he saw an old
elephant which had belonged to the late Emperor. He called
1 [Stewart, p. 21.]
2 [Instead of thu paragraph, the words of Sir H. Elliot's MS. simply say, << A man
doifacd in black came and seized my bridle ifilau), and so turned the reins (indn) of
my horse.'*]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
144 JAUHAB.
to the driver to bring the elephant to him, who did so. He then
mounted, and asked a eunuch who was in the hotcdahj what was
his name. He replied^ ^^Kafur." His Majesty then orclered
the driver to carrj him across the river, but the fellow refused,
and said the elephant would be drowned. On which the eunuch
whispered, that he suspected the driver wished to carry them
over to the enemy ; it would therefore be advisable to take off
the fellow'^s head. The King said, ^^ How shall we then make
the elephant cross the river P" The eunuch replied, that he
understood something of driving an elephant. Upon hearing
this, His Majesty drew his sword and so wounded the driver
that he fell off into the water, and the eunuch stepped down
from the howdah on the neck of the animal, and caused him to
pass the river. His Majesty further related, that when he
arrived near the bank, it was so steep that he could not find a
place to ascend. At length, some of the camp colour-men,^ who
were on the look out for him, tied their turbans together, and
throwing an end of the cloth to him, he with some difficulty
climbed up. They then brought him a horse, on which he
mounted and proceeded towards ^gra. ♦ ♦ ♦
The King having been joined by the Princes Hind&l and
'Askari and the Mirz&s T&dg&r Nisir, etc., proceeded joyfully
towards j^gra. When they reached the village of Bhain-g&nw,
the peasants, who were in the habit of plundering a defeated
army, stopped up the road, and one of them wounded Mirz&
Yddg&r with an arrow. On which the Mirz& said to the Prince
^Askari, '^ Do you go on and punish these villagers, while I stop
to dress my wound.**" The Prince was displeased at this request,
and gave the Mirz& some abuse, on which the other retorted in
harsher language, and the Prince struck him three times with
his horsewhip, which was returned with interest on the other
side. When intelligence of this unpleasant fracas reached the
King, he said, ^' They had better have vented their spite on the
robbers than on each other. What has happened cannot be
1 [The word is tiiffh-bdndn, « nobles of the ^tft^A-haaner.**]
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TAZKIRATU-L WAKI'AT. 145
recalled, but let us hear no more of it." In short, the King
reached jA^gra in safety.
Battk of ETipehdk}
One of the scoundrels of the enemy approached the King, and
struck him on the head with his sword, and was about to repeat
the blow, when His Majesty, looking at him, said, '* You wretch,
how dare you ? " — upon which the fellow desisted ; and some other
officers coming up, led the King out of the battle ; but he was
so severely wounded,' that he became weak fipom loss of blood,
and therefore threw off his jahba (quilted coat), and gave it in
charge of an Abyssinian servant ; but his servant being obliged
to make his escape from the battle, threw away ihejabba^ which
having been found by some of K&mr&n'*s followers, it was brought
to the Prince, who immediately proclaimed that the King was
killed.
At this time there only remained with His Majesty eleven
persons, including servants, and the author of these pages. We
therefore took him out of the battle ; and as his own horse was
unquiet, we mounted him on a small ambling steed, two of the
chiefs supporting him on either side, and endeavouring to console
liim by anecdotes of former princes who had suffered similar
adversity, and encouraged him to exert biaiself, as it was pro-
bable the enemy might pursue him. On hearing this, he resumed
liis fortitude, and proceeded towards the pass of Sirtun. On the
inarch we were joined by some of the chiefs, and at nightfall
reached the entrance of Sirtun. As it was then very cold, and
His Majesty suffered much from weakness, a sheepskin cloak
was brought and put on him.
In the morning we reached the top of the pass ; and as it was
then getting warm, the King dismounted on the bank of the
river, performed his ablutions, ai^d washed his wound ; but as
there was no carpet for prayer to be found, the humble servant,
Jaohar, brought the cover of a stool of scarlet cloth, and spread
Stewart, p. 94.
VOL. v. 10
Digitized by VjOOQIC
146 JAUHAE.
it for His Majesty, who knelt thereon, and performed his devo-
tions, and sat down facing the kU>la (Mecca). • • •
The King again mounted, and rode on to Parw&n, where he
alighted. At this place the only tent that could be procured was
a small shamiydna (canopy), sufficient only to screen one person ;
under this His Majesty lay down and slept. In the morning
the author of these pages awoke His Majesty, and told him it
was the hour of morning prayer. He said, " My boy, as I am
so severely wounded, I cannot bear to. purify myself with cold
water." I represented that I had got sobie warm water ready
for him; he then arose, performed his ablutions, and said his
prayers. He afterwards mounted his horse, but had not ridden
far when he complained that the clotted blood on his clothes hurt
him, and asked of the servants if they had no jama (coat) they
could lend him. Bah&dur Kh&n replied, he ^^ had a jdma^ but
it was one His Majesty had discarded and given to him, and he
had worn it." The King said, " Never mind that, bring it."^
He then put it on, and gave the dress which was stained with
blood to this humble servant, Jauhar, the dftdbchi^ and said,
" Take care of this dress, and only wear it on holy days."
From Parw&n we proceeded to Kahamrud, where T&hir
Muhammad had the honour of paying his respects. He had
pitched an old tent for the King, and had prepared an enter-
tainment for him ; but the blockhead did not bring any present,
not even a spare dress. His Majesty ordered his followers to
partake of the dinner, but went himself to the edge of a fountain,
where they pitched an old tent, grimed with smoke and soot, for
him ; but as there was no necessary tent, the humble servant
went and procured two hurdles, which he fixed up as a privy.
At this time an old woman came and offered His Majesty a pair
of silk trousers. He said, ^' Although these are not proper for
a man to wear, yet, as my owq are defiled with blood, I will put
them on." He then inquired what the woman had for her
support ; and on being informed, wrote an order to the collector
not to demand any tribute from her in future.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAZKIRATU-L WAKI'AT. 147
Surrender of Kabul to Kdmrdn}
When His Majesty left K&bul, he bestowed the goyernment
on K&sim 'Ali, who had formerly been a servant of E&mr&n'*s ;
bat notwithstanding this circumstance, he for some time refused
to give up the fortress, till assured by E&mr&n that the King
was dead, who in proof thereof produced the jcAha or quilted
coat ; in consequence of which the Prince was allowed to enter
the fort, and again took possession of the young Akbar. * ♦ After
remiuning a month and twenty days at Andar&b, * * the King
determined on marching to oppose the rebels ; but he first as-
sembled all his chiefs^ and proposed to them to take the oath of
allegiance. H&ji Muhammad Kh&n said, ^^ It was also incumbent
on His Majesty to take the oath of confederacy.'^ The Prince
Hind&l said, ^' Such a proceeding was highly improper.*" But
the King said, ^^ If the chiefs wished it, he would take the oath
to satisfy them.'' In short, the oaths were ratified on both sides ;
and, to give the ceremony more solemnity, the King fibsted all
that day.
Kdmrdn surrendered by the Qakhars, and blinded.*
The Eling received letters fix>m Sult&n Adam, chief of the
Grakhars, stating that '^tbe Prince K&mr&n was now in his
territory, and that if EQs Majesty would take the trouble of
coming there, he would give him up." ♦ ♦ ♦ The Prince arrived,
and advanced with great humility. The King, however, received
him graciously, and pointed to him to sit down on the bed on
his right hand. His Majesty then sat down on the bed also,
having the young Prince Akbar on his left hand. Sult&n Adam,
'Abdu-1 Ma'&li, and the other chie& were also seated in due
order. After some time. His Majesty called for a water-melon,
one-third of which he took and divided with his brother. * * *
Preparations having been made for an entertainment, the whole
night was passed in jollity and carousing. * * * [Four days after],
» Stewart, p. 99. » Stewart, p. 103.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
148 JAUHAR.
the business of Mirza K&mr&n was taken into consideration, and
it was resolved, in the first place, to remove all his servants &om
him. Then the King ordered five of his own people [natne8]j
and his hamble servant Jauhar, to attend upon the Prince, and
he said to me, " My boy (ghuldm)^ do you know where you are
sent?" I said, "Yes, and I know Your Majesty'^s (wishes)."
He replied, " Your business is to take care of the interior of the
tent, you are desired not to sleep for a moment." ♦ ♦ •
Early in the morning the King marched towards Hindust&n,
but before his departure determined that the Prince should be
blinded, and gave orders accordingly ; but the attendants on the
Prince disputed among themselves who was to perform the cruel
act. Sult&n 'All, the paymaster, ordered 'Ali Dost to do it*
The other replied, " You will not pay a Sh&h-Rukhi (3«. 6d.) to
any person without the King's directions ; therefore, why should
I commit this deed without a personal order from His Majesty P
Perhaps to-morrow the King may say, ' Why did you put out
the eyes of my brother P ' What answer could I give P Depend
upon it I will not do it by your order." Thus they continued to
quarrel for some time. At length, I said, " I will go and inform
the King." On which I with two others galloped after His
Majesty. When we came up with him, 'Ali Dost said, in the
Ghaghat&i Turki language, '^ No one will perfoim the business.'^
The King replied in the same language, abused hiui, and said,
"Why don't you do it yourself?"
After receiving this command, we returned to the Prince, and
Ghul&m ^Ali represented to him, in a respectful and condoling
manner, that he had received positive orders to blind him. The
Prince replied, " I would rather you would at once kill me."
Ghul&m 'All said, " We dare not exceed our orders." He then
twisted a handkerchief up as a ball for thrusting into the mouth,
and he with the fardsh seizing the Prince by the hands, pulled
him out of the tent, laid him down, and thrust a lancet into his
eyes (such was the will of God). This they repeated at least
fifty times ; but he bore the torture in a manly manner, and did
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TA2KIRATir-L WAKF AT. 149
not utter a single groan, except when one of the men who was
sitting on his knees pressed him. He then said, '^ Why do you
sit npon my knees^P What is the use of adding to my pain P "
This wa» all he said, and he acted with great courage, till they
squeezed some (lemon) juice and salt into the sockets of his eyes.
He then could not forbear, and called out, *^0 Lord, O Lord, my
GK>d, whatever sins I may have committed have been amply
punished in this world, have compassion upon me in the next."
♦ ♦ ♦ The author of these pages, seeing the Prince in such pain
and distress, could no longer remain with him. I therefore went
to my own tent, and sat down in a very melancholy mood. The
King having seen me, sent J&n Muhammad, the librarian, to ask
me, ^'If the business I had been employed on was finished, and
why I had returned without orders?" The humble servant
represented that ^^ the business I had been sent on was quite
completed." His Majesty then said, *'He need not go back,
let him get the water ready for me to bathe.*^]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
150
XXXIX.
HKnrKU-I ALFT
OF
MAUL^NA AHMAD, AND OTHERS.
This work comprehends a History of Muhamroadan nations up
to the thousandth year of the Hijra era. It is firom this cir-
cumstance that it obtains i& name, Alf signifying in the Arabic
language one thousand. The Emperor Akbar directed its com-
pilation by several learned men,^ and may have perhaps fixed
upon this particular period of one thousand years, in conformity
with a notion he is said to have entertained and expressed, that
the Muhammadan religion would be abolished, after lasting
that period.'
At the eommencement of the work, many different authors
were employed, but, subsequently, the chief labour devolved
upon Maul&ni Ahmad, the son of die K&il of Thatta,^ and the
author of Kfiuldsatu-l Haydty " the Essence of Life." An in-
teresting account of the different parties engaged on it is given
by 'Abdu-1 K&dir Bad&uni in the following passage from his
Muntahhabu't Tawdrikh.
''About this time (a.h. 990), MuUfi Ahmad, of Thatta, a
bigot, who had the impertinence^ to call himself a physician,
^ Two hundred years before a siinilar Bcheme was executed by Gathrie and G-rey,
and there was one before theirs. See Oeaoh, tL ieh, £edek. Fenims, p. 353. P. Cychp,
Tol. xi., p. 197,
^ Troyer and Shea, Dabittan, toI. iii., p. 98.
' His birthplace is differently given by others. Dr. Bird calls him son of Naarallah
of Nineyeh. General Briggs calls him Mull& Ahmad of Nineyeh. See Muloiy of
Ouzeralf p. 88. Firishta, yol. i., p. xlix. Dabistan^ yol. iL, p. 160.
^ The author of the Ma-dnru-l Umard, who was himself a Shi'a, speaks more
tenderly of these absurdities. He says the Mull& was partial to religious oontroYeiBy,
and rarely missed an opportunity of indulging his propensity, even in mixed societies.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
MRIKH-I ALFr. 151
came from the Dekhin, and was presented at Goart. His ances-
tors, who resided in Sind, were Fdrikls of the Hanifah sect, and
MulU Ahmad used, in consequence of his apostacj, to shower
anathemas upon those unfortunate persons. * * * In the time
of Sh&h Tahm&sp he associated in 'Ir&k with some heretic
frftnians, but he even exceeded them, notwithstanding their
notorious heresy. When Sh&h Ism'ail II. deserted the &ith
of his &ther, and became a Sunni, and persecuted the heretic
Shi'as, MuIU Ahmad accompanied Makhdum SharkI (an un-
compromising Sunni, who wrote the KUdhu^n Nawdfiz) on a
pilgrimage to Mecca. Thence he proceeded to the Dekhin, and
afterwards to Hindust&n, and finding no opposition to the pro-
secution of his designs, he began to teach his absurd doctrines,^
and invite converts to the Shi^a persuasion ; but in a short time
he met the penalty of his evil deeds. He had as yet had no
interview with Shaikh Fiuzi, and had not yet assumed that air
of confidence, with which his intimacy with that minister in-
spired him, when I saw him one day in the bdzaty where some
'^Ir&kis took the opportunity of mentioning my name to him in
terms of praise. Upon this, he addressed me, and said, ' I see
the mark of a Shi^a stamped on your forehead.** *Just as
much,' I replied, ^ as I see Sunni stamped upon yours.' The
bystanders laughed, and were much gratified at the retort. I
shall, please God ! notice the close of his life in the proper place.*^
" The year 1000 of the Hijra era, which is in general use,
being now completed,' the Emperor Akbar ordered a history to
be written of all the Muhammadan kings, and directed that such
a name should be given to the work as to denote the year of its
composition. It was for this reason that the work was entitled
Atfi. He further ordered the word RihkU (death) to be sub-
1 The Ma-dnru'l Vmard does not giTO bo sorry an account of his daim to be a
physician, as wiU be seen below.
' This is said in the paulo-post fhtnre sense, because the order for the composition
of the Tdrikk-i Alfi is recorded as one of the events of 990 h., and we find ' Abdn-l
K&dir going to Lahore to revise it in 1000 h. The translation of the MaKdbhdrata
was also ordered in 990 h.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
152 MAULANA AHMAD.
fitituted for Hijra (flight) in the diflFerent dates, and employed
seven persons to undertake the compilation from the date of
the decease of the Prophet to the present day, and to mention
therein the events of the whole world.""
" He assigned the first year to Nakib Kh&n, the second to
Sh4h Fath-ulla, and so on to Hakim Hum&m, Hakim 'AH,
H&JL Ibr&him Sirhindi (who had just then arrived from Gujar&t),
Mirz& Niz&mu-d din, and myself; so that by such distribution
thirty-five years were finished in the course of a week.'^
" Daring the period that I was compiling the events of the
seventh year, and was engaged on the life of Ehalif 'XJmar, the
model of purity (may God be propitious to him !), I had just
completed an account of the foundation of Eu&, and the destruc-
tion of Mad&-in, from the ruins of which the new city was
embellished, and the marriage of Ammi Eulsum, the daughter
of the Amiru-1 muminin 'All ^ (may God be propitious to him !),
as well as the institution of five stated times for prayer, the
fall of the city of Nasibin, and the large black scorpions which
were made use of to effect its capture, when, one night, Mirza
J'afar iCsaf Kh&n thought proper to dispute the correctness of
these facts.' Notwithstanding this. Shaikh Abu-1 Fazl and
Ghdzi Eh&n Badakhshi confirmed my assertions. Shortly after-
wards, when I was asked whence I got this information, I replied
that I had seen it in books, and had written accordingly, and
that it was not my own invention. Immediately the Rauzatu-l
Ahbdb and other historical books were called for from the library,
and given to Nakib Kh&n to verify the accuracy of the state-
ment, which, by €k>d's grace, being found correct, I was relieved
from the charge of invention.*'
" At the recommendation of Hakim Abu-1 Fath, the compila-
^ Sprenger calls her the fifth child of MuhAmmad, and ipells her name ** Omm
Kolthum." Muhammad had both wife and daughter of the name. Bainaud.
Blacaa, toI. ii., p. 128. Univ. Biti., 7ol. i, p. 176. Ockley, p. 270. Irring's
SueceuoTi of Mahomet, p. 133. Weil, toI. i., 144, and for others, see Index to Weil,
♦♦Umm Kolthum."
^ See note in Appendix.
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TARIKH-I ALPr. 153
tion of the work from the thirty-sixth year was entmsted solely
to Mulld Ahmad of Thatta, who, however, wrote whatever
coincided with his sectarian prejudices — a fiEtct which is well
known. The compilation of two volumes was finished up to the
time of Ghangiz Eh&n, when Mirz& Ful4d, one night, pretend-
ing that the King had sent for Mull& Ahmad, summoned him
from his house, and murdered him in a street of Lahore, in
revenge for some injury which he had suflFered at his hands, as
well as because he was violently opposed to him in matters of
religion. For this act he was sentenced to death.''
*' The remainder of the work was written by JiasS Eh&n, up
to the year 997 ^ h. In the year 1000 h.* I was ordered to
proceed to Lahore, to revise the composition, to compare it
with other histories, and to arrange the dates in their proper
sequence. I compared the first two volumes in one year, and
entrusted the third to XasS KhAn."«
In another part of his History (a.h. 1003), 'Abdu-1 E&dir
again speaks of the Tdrikh-i Alfi being divided into three books,
two composed by Mull& Ahmad, " the heretic, may he meet with
his deserts !" and the third by ^saf Kh4n (J'a&r Beg).* Major
C. Stewart, however, in his Catalogue of Tipu Sult&n's Library,
< Not haTing seen the last part of the History, I am not able to aieertain whether
it extendi only to 997 h. The Ma-dnru-l Umard uaes the oame expretnon. Bird's
Gmerutf p. 88, says it was completed in 996 h. The Hyderabad copy goes to 974 of
the Biklat, and a copy belonging to Wil&yat Hnsain goes to 984 of MihUU or 994 h.
* In another portion of his History he says, that he presented the first Tolnme of
the edition, which had been reTised by him, in the 39th year of the reign, correspond-
ing widi A.H. 1003, in which labour, his friend, Mnll& Mnstafl^ a fiunons copyist of
Lahore, had been associated with him. He was then asked by Akbar to reyise the
second, as it was fnll of the religions opinions of Mnll& Ahmad, bnt he excused him-
idf from doing more than merely revising the style, without altering the sense, or
eorreetiag the dates ; in order that his enemies might not say he had been introducing
his own sentiments instead of those of the author, and substituting one set of pre-
judiees for another. As the IHrikk-i Alfi is quoted in the Tabakdi-i Akbaf% which
is brought down only to the end of the 38th year of the reign, corresponding with
1002 H., it is erident it must have been ayailable before ' Abdu4 K&dir had rerised it
> Bespecting him see Mirdi-i Jahdn^umd, p. 692, and Bagk-i nCdni, s.t., where he
is said to have written the annals of 400 years. See also Ikbdi-ndma Jahangiri^ third
volume, Mirdt'i *Jthm. Sprenger's Biil., p. 57.
« TaiaMt'^ 8hdA Jahdn, f. 267, 286.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
154 MAUUCNX AHMAD.
says it is divided into five books, and that it extends firora a.d.
622 to 1592. The error of making it oommence from A.D. 622
arises from his supposing that its dates refer to the Flight, instead
of the Death, of Muhammad [making a difference of ten years
and two months]. This alteration of a universal era, and the
substitution of one especially for this work, is a very objection-
able feature of the TdrikA^i Affi^ excellent as it is in many other
respects.
It will be observed that 'Abdu-1 K&dir promised to relate
further particulars of Mull& Ahmad in their proper place, and
he fiilfils that promise in the following passage, which affords as
amusing an instance of odium theologieum as is to be met with
in any country.
''During this month (Safar, 996 a.h.) Mirz& Ful4d Birl&s
persuaded the heretic Mull& Ahmad, who was always openly
reviling the first Khali/s, to leave his own house at midnight
under some pretence, and then assassinated him. The chrono-
grams of which event are, 'Bravo! Ful&d^s stiletto!^ and
'Hellish hogP^ and indeed when I saw that dog in the agonies
of death, I observed his countenance to be exactly like that of a
hog: others also observed the same. (May God protect me
from such a dreadful &te!)^ Mirz& Ful&d, was bound alive
to the leg of an elephant in the city of Lahore, and thus attained
martyrdom.
'^ When Hakim Abu-1 Fath sent some one to inquire of him,
whether sectarian prejudices had induced him to kill MulU
Ahmad, he replied that had that been the reason, he would have
selected a more noble victim than the MuIU. The Sakim
reported this speech to the King, who remarked that Mirz&
Ful&d was an implacable villain, and ought to suffer death.
He therefore ordered him to be drawn, while yet living, by
an elephant, although he was very nearly obtaining a pardon
1 Id., f. 225.
' A Shi'a, who marked the rahrics on the margin of the copy I hare nsed, takes a
most Bummary reyenge, hy heading this passage thus : " The asBasrination of the
blessed Mq11& Ahmad by the ruthless dagger of an aocureed son of a pig."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARTKH-I ALFF. 155
through the intereession of the ladies ^ of the royal household.
The Mull& expired three or four days after the Mirz&.
*^ It is said, that ivhen the Shi'as were bathing the Mall& pre-
vious to burial, they fixed, according to the observances of their
religion, a tent peg in his back, and dipped him several times
in the river, and that when he was buried, Shaikh Faizi and
Sluukh ^Abu-1 Fazl appointed watchmen to guard his tomb ;
notwithstanding which, when the Ooort departed for Kashmir,
the people of Lahore disinterred his vile carcase, and burnt it.*"
The author of the Jfo-o^'ru-/ Umard adds a few particulars
respecting Mulli Ahmad, in his biography of Ful&d Kh&n. He
says that the accomplice of Mirza Ful4d personated one of the
loyal meseengers, and summoned the Mull& to the King's pre-
sence ; that when the Mull& had left his house, he was attacked,
and had «ne of his hands cut off by a sword ; that the assassins,
mistaking it for his head, ran oS^ satisfied that their work was
accomplished; that he fell from his horse, and when he had
recovered a little, picked up his own hand, and went to the house
of Hakim Hasan for succour; that when Fdl&d Kh&n was seized,
he confessed the crime before Abu-1 Fazl, Eh&n-kh&n&n, and
Asaf Ek&n«
He says also that Mulld Ahmad went in his twenty-second
year to Meshhed, and thence to Yezd and Shir&z, where, under
the instructions of the physicians Eam&lu-d din Husain and Muil&
Mirz& Jin, he entered on a course of medical study, and read the
KulydUi Kdniin of Avicenna, and the Sharfhi TajHdy with all
the commentaries. He then went to Eazwin, where he had an
interview with Sh&h Tahm&sp, and when Shah Ism'&il the
Second was converted to the Sunni doctrine, he went to ^Ir&k-i
^Arab and Mecca, and after mixing with several celebrated
1 The Ma-dnru-l Umard says <' by the nobles of tbe State." The determination
to cany the sentence into effect shows the stern jnstiee of the Emperor. The Birlfrs
tribe bad serred his for eight generations, and Mirz& F61&d had himself been selected
by Akbar to accompany an embassy to 'Abdu-Ua Khka Uzbek, in the twenty-second
year of the reign* Mod. Unut, HUL, toL iii., pp. 333, 340; Shqjrat ul Atrak^
p. 61 ; MatUu-^ Sa'dain, p. 260 ; HUL Qmeah^. d, Tatars^ p. 152.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
156 MAULANX AHMAD.
scholars in those parts, proceeded to the Dekhin, to the Court
of Kutb Sh&h of Gt)Iconda, and in the twenty-seventh year of
Akbar'^s reign came to Fathpur Sikri, where he received orders
to compile the Tdrikh-i Al/L
He used to read out his composition to Akbar, who asked him
upon one occasion, why he had dwelt so long upon E^halifii
'TJsm&n's reign. He replied openly, says the Ma-dsiru-l Umard^
before all the Tdr&ni nobles, who were Sunnis, that that period
is the ^^HauzafU'S Shuhadd " ^ of the Sunnis, and to abridge it
would give offence.
The inconvenience respecting the introduction of a novel era
in the Tdrikh-i Al/i has already been noticed. Another very
serious accusation has been laid against this work, of leaving
out several important events during the period it embraces ;
and the omission of the decisive battle of Gadesiah in a.d. 636,
which preceded the final subjugation of Persia, has been
especially commented on as a proof of carelessness. But a
much greater objection ta be made to the Tdrikh^i Alfi m the
plan of the work: it is constructed in the form of Annals,
like the tedious Historical Library of Diodorus ; and thus we
are compelled to turn over page after page of this voluminous
history, before we can trace the connexion of events in any
particular country which may happen to be the subject of our
investigation. Nothing but an excellent Index could remedy
such a defect. There is confusion also sometimes about the
dates. And protracted affairs are grouped under one year, the
exact dates of their various phases not being sufficiently stated.
The compilers appear to have availed themselves of all the
best sources of information open to them; for there is no
historical work, Arabic or Persian, of any celebrity amongst
modem European scholars, which they do not quote; often
applying a very judicious criticism in selecting the most trust-
^ The Bauxatu-t Shuhaddy " the garden of xnartTis/' is the name usually given to
works recounting the tragical fate of the sons of 'AU. The author eyidently oon-
siden the remark of the MuU& to be witty and seyere. He also quotes the retcnt, of
which 'Abdu-1 Kfidir boasts abore, at p^ 151.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAErXH-I ALFr. 157
worthy records, and rejecting the fabulous legends with which
so many of them abound. The authorities quoted on Indian
affiiirs are few^ but more may be mentioned in the Preface,
which was written by Abu-1 Fazl, according to his own ac-
knowledgment.
The work is not often quoted, but it was greatly used by
Elaidar E&zi.
I have seen no notice of the existence of this work in European
libraries.^ Parts of it are to be met with in India, but not one
library, which I know of, contains a perfect copy. It is a work
of great size. The portion I have seen was a folio of 1646
pages, with 40 lines to a page, and it was very incomplete. At
Haidar&bad there is a copy in two volumes, which, though im-
perfect, contains, in the first volume, 1336 pages of 19 lines
each, and, in the second, 2066 pages of 31 lines each. One of
the best manuscripts is in the possession of the JN^aw&b of
Murshid&b&d, which is thus described :
The second volume consists of 976 pages of 20 lines, and
contains the events from the year 127 to 500, after the death
of Muhammad.
The third volume consists of 640 pages of 20 lines, and
contains the events from the year 501 to 672.
The fourth volume consists of 1092 pages of 21 lines, and
contains the events from the year 673 to 974.
Two more volumes therefore are required to make this work
complete. I was anxious to make further inquiries about the
Naw&b's copy, but the librarian seemed indisposed to furnish any
more information respecting it, and gave evasive answers i evincing
thereby a suspicion, which, if anywhere, is certainly excusable in
the neighbourhood of Calcutta, where commercial profligacy has
brought the European character into very low repute.^
^ [There are sereral Tolumes of the work in the Library of the East India Office.]
* It wiU be observed at p. 154 that the author, Mull& Ahmad, was inveigled out
€i his house by a man who personated one of the royal messengers. This official is
called in the original by the Turkish word Chdits, which was, and is, except meta-
phorically, rarely used in India. Chdiu^ or Chdwuih, signifies a lictor, a king's
Digitized by VjOOQIC
158 MATJUCSK AHMAD.
[The Extracts which follow afford ample means of judging of
the character of the work. The earliest of them, preceding the
reign of Akbar, appeared with some others in Sir H. EUiot's
original pubh'cation, and they record events which have been
passed oyer without notice by the historians quoted in the earlier
volumes of the present work. The passages relating to the reign
of Akbar have been selected and translated by the Editor as in-
teresting in themselves, and as affording the means for comparing
the TdHkhri Al/i with the Tabakdt-i Akhari. The twa works are
generally very much in accord, bat their language and style
are different. Still the resemblance of the two works is such
as to induce a belief that one author had access to the work of
Sergeant, an Officer of the Court. His proceedings upon this occasion confirm the
had reputation of a class, from which, only a few years afterwards, we were enabled
to coin oar expressive word ehoute. In a.d. 1609, a Chdiit from the Grand Signim'
committed a gross fraud upon the Turkish and Persian merchants resident in England,
hy cheating them out of 4000/. (Oifford's Ben Jonton, It. 27). Hence, from the
notoriety of the circumstance, came the expression to ekou$e^ just as in the preseiit
century we have got to Inirke, and some other very significant terms.
The authors of the period caught gladly at the expression, and familiarized it to
after ages by making frequent use of it. Richardson gives the following instanoes : —
Gul or Mogul,
Tag rag, or other hogen-mogen, yarden,
Ship-jacks, or chouses.
Ford, Zady*s Trial, iL 2.
Dap. What do you think of me, that I am a Chiaus ?
Face. Whar'sthatP
Lap. The Turk was here. As one would say, do you think I am a Turk ?
Face. Come, noble doctor, pray thee, let's prevail ; this is the gentleman, and he is
no Chiaus.
Ben Jonson, Alchemist, i. 1.
He stole your cloak and piek*d your pocket,
Chous*d and caldes'd ye like a blockhead.
Butler, Hudibras, ii; 8.
It is obvious to remark, that if, in the age of our forefathers, cheating to the
extent of only 4000/. was sufficient to consign a whole class to an immortality of
infamy, how many more expressive words, dissyllables as well as monosyllables, might
not the transactions of 1847-48 encourage us to add to our vocabulary, since even
40,000/. is not sufficient to satiate the voracity of a Calcutta CAo'^.—See Chnrehill
(chap. viii. p. 248), where Captain Robert Coverte (1609) says, " The governor pat
him in a house with a chouse or keeper." See also Marsden's Marco Polo, p. 348
Mod. Univ. Hi»t., vol. x., p. 202; Gibbon, chap. Ivii., note 49; Cantemir's <7«A.
Smp., p. 17 ; [Trench's English Fast and Fresent, p. 62.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAETKH-I ALFr. 159
the other, or that both works were based upon the same original
materials. The MSS. used bj the Editor have been a small
one prepared for Sir H. Elliot, containing only the passages
lelaiing to India ; and a fine large one belonging to the Library
of the East India Office, written in a variety of hands. This
commences with the year 485 h., and is not quite complete at
the end. XJnfortanately the mbrics of the dates hare been
filled in only in the earlier part of the volume.]
EXTRACrS.
Anno 68 after the death of Muhammad (Hijra 78 = 697 A.n.).^
When '^Abdn-Ua, the son of Abubakr, arrived at Nimroz,
Hajjaj sent a message, requesting him not to linger in Sijist&n,
but to march without delay towards K&bul, as signs of rebellion
and disaffection had exhibited themselves in the chief, Baibal.'
He had formerly entered into a treaty with the Muhammadans,
and agreed to pay a tribute annually into the treasury, and as
long as he found the Muhammadans powerful, he paid the
tribute, but whenever they were engaged in other affairs, or
exhibited weakness, he withheld it. 'Abdu-lla, in obedience to
the commands of Hajj&j, turned towards Kabul with the armies
of £u& and Basra, and as fast as the Muhammadans advanced,
Baibal retreated towards Hindust&n. D&dah Sharaih, one of
the officers of 'Abdu-Ua, pursued Bdibal seventeen parasangs.
At this time, the ruler of K&bul sent persons to some of the
nobles and well-wishers of the State, desiring them to secure
those roads, by which the Muhammadans had entered the
country, in such a manner that they should neither obtain any
supplies, nor have the opportunity of retracing their steps.
The consequence was, that after a few days such a famine broke
out in the Muhammadan camp, that every one despaired of
^ [Mahammad died on the 12th Rabi'u-1 awwal, in the eleventh year of the Hijra,
A.i>. 632, or according to some writers, ten days earlier. The era of the Rihlat or
death is, therefore, ten years two months, and a few days in arrear of the Hijra. So
an equation of ten years will generally bring the two into agreement.]
» See VoL II., p. 416.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
160 MAULANA AHMAD.
life. XJpon this, 'Abdu-Ua said to Sharaih Hani, " It is advis-
able for us to treat with the infidels, and to offer them 70,000 ^
dirhaim to remove from our way, so that we may betake ourselves
to a place of security."'* Sharaih replied, " Whatever amount
you offer to the infidels, the diwdn will place to your individual
account." ^Abdu-lla rejoined, ''Such a demand even would be
preferable to the alternative of starvation in these dreadfiil
places.**' Sharaih said, " My age exceeds a hundred years, and
I never expected to arrive at this period of existence. It has
long been my prayer before the throne of Gh)d that I might
suffer martyrdom, and the time for its accomplishment has now
arrived.'*' Saying this, he mounted his horse, and exclaimed,
" 0 Musulm&ns, ye who have a desire to be martyrs, follow me ! *'
Upon which, a few men came forward, and joined him, and with
boldness rushing to the battle-field, they charged the infidels,
and kept on fighting till they were slain.
'Abdu-Ua, after paying 70,000 dirhama to the enemy, returned
with his followers. When they arrived at the Muhammadan
firontier, food was served out to them ; and so iamished were
they, that those who satisfied their appetite died immediately.
When this was known, they appeased their hunger more mode-
rately, and were thus by degrees restored to their former strength.'
Anno 426 after the death of Muhammad^ (436 h.=1044 a.d.).
One of the events of this year was, that three of the principal
K&j&s of Hind, having formed a confederacy, with an intent to
deliver Lahore from the Muhammadans who had risen up in
rebellion against Maudud, son of Mas'ud, laid siege to the city.
Upon seeing this, the commander of the Muhammadan forces in
Lahore again made submission to Maudud, and collected together
the entire Muhammad m force. When the B&j&s learnt that the
Muhammadans had again submitted to Maudud, son of Mas'ud,
^ In another passage this is 700,000 in the original.
' See Niebuhr, toI. iii., p. 211 ; Price, vol i., p. 263 ; Weil, toI. i., p. 449.
» [See Vol. IV., p. 201.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAKrKH-I ALFr. 161
two of them, in dread of him, withdrew to their country, but the
third, whose name was Deop&l Hamama, delayed his retreat a
little, in order to try his strength with the Muhammadans. The
latter, when satisfied of their superiority, made a sally, com-
pelled the Hiji to fly before them, and killed many infidels in
the pursuit. The B&j& retired within a stronghold, which the
Muhammadans invested and pressed vigorously. The fort was
a small one, and the troops which accompanied the B&j& to
that place amounted to 5000 horsemen and 70,000 foot soldiers.
The infidels found themselves on the verge of destruction, and
sent deputies to the Muhammadans begging for quarter; but
the Muhammadans would not consent, unless the infidels sur-
rendered every one of their fortresses. At length, when the
infidels had no other alternative than to yield, they accepted
the conditions, and saved their lives. The property and
treasure of all their forts fell into the hands of the Muham-
madans, together with 5000 Muhammadans who were im-
prisoned in them. These, having been set free, joined the
victorious army.
When the Muhammadan army had settled affairs with B&j&
Deopfl Ham&ma, who was superior to all the kings of Hind in
power and grandeur, they directed their attention to another
!R&j&, named M&b B&lri, who, when he received the intelligence
thereof, set his troops in order, and advanced with a determina-
tion to fight with the Muhammadans. Upon the meeting of the
two armies, the fire of battle was kindled ; and notwithstanding
the inferiority of the Muhammadan forces, which did not amount
to one-tenth of those opposed to them, by the help of Providence
their victorious banners prevailed. The BAjk was sent to perdi-
tion, and 5000 of his army fell on the field of battle. The
Muhammadans took considerable booty and many prisoners.
When the chiefs of Hind were informed of these circumstances,
they gave in their submission, and by assenting to pay tribute,
kept themselves free from the destructive swords of the Mu-
hammadans.
TOL. T. 11
Digitized by VjOOQIC
162 MAULANA AHMAB.
Anno 471 qfler the death o/Muhammmi^ (481 H.r=:1088 a.d.).
When Ibr&hfm, son of Mas'ud, was satisfied that there was
no apprehension of any opposition from the SaljukianSi he
despatched an army towards Hindust&n» and conqaered seyeral
places that had not been captured by hia predecessors, notwith-
standing their power. One of the places which submitted to
the conqueror was the fort of Jud,' which surpassed all others
in strength and extent. It was situated 120 parasange distant
from Lahore, and at the time when Ibr&hfm commenced opera-
tions against the fort, there was a garrison in it of 10,000 men,
who fought long and yaliantly against the invader. Finding
Ibr&hlm's efforts and resources to capture the fort very great,
the garrison became dispirited ; and although they had sufficient
supplies and plenty of water, they nevertheless surrendered,
on condition that their lives should be spared. After capturing
this fort, Ibr&him directed his attention towards another, called
Dam&l,' which was situated on the summit of a high hill on the
borders of Hindtist&n ; on one side of this fort there was a large
river, reported to be impassable ; and on the other, a large thorny
jungle, into which nothing but the rays of the sun could pene-
trate. The jungle was, moreover, infested with venomous serpents
and flies, and abounded with elephants of enormous size. It
was inhabited by a race of Hindds of gigantic form, and it was
the most celebrated of all the places in Hindtist&n. At the foot
of the hill there was no level ground suited for his operations.
Ibr&him, nevertheless, with his usual courage, made an attempt
to take the fort, and through the aid of G^od, soon captured it.
He took possession of an immense quantity of property and
jewels, the like of which had never been seea.
1 [The oonquests recorded in tiu0 Extract are not mentioned ather in the TabakH^i
Ndtirl or the Eabibu^ Siyar, hiut they are related hy Firiehta, who placee them in
the year 472 (1079 a.d.).] * [Firishta says it waa «* Ajodhan/'J
s [Called hy Firishta " Rdp&l " or <' Rddpfil/'} ProhaUy the place sahsaqoeniiy
called Ntirpdr, which hae a fort huilt of stonee and mud on an eminence about 200
feet highf at the hase of which flows a small riyer, a feeder of the B&tI, which it
joins about thirty miles lower down.— Thornton's Oautteer, vol. ii., p. 8S.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
UCBTKH-I UJT. 163
Ibrilif m next oiaEebed towards Denipdr^ in HinddfltiD, » place
whieh many great emperors had finmd it impracticable to con-
quer. Seyeol tmatwortkj kictories state that this place was
iafaabited hf the descendants of tiie people of Khnr&s&n, wliO)
frr their disloTal and robeliions conduct, had been long before
banished the country by Afir&siab, Emperor ct Tdr&a. Thie
place was densefy popolaited, and was of considerable stMigfth.
There was a krge resecroir of water in it, the diameter of which
was half ^patmang; and though both men and beasts used to
drink of the water throi^hout the year, yet bo decMase was
perceptible. Daring tiie time the people alladed t# dwelt in this
place, the rders of Hindust&n nerer dared to attack it^ from a
conviction of its impregnable strength. • When Salt&n Ibr&him
heard the accoant of this country, he resolved to conquer it, and
marched against it with a large army. The inhabitants heard
<ii hie approadiy and made ready to oppose him. A fierce
struggle ensued, but Ibrihim at length gained the victory, and
slew many of ihemu Those who escaped fled to the jungles^
Neasly 100^000 of tkeir women and diildren were taken prisoners,
and an incalculable amount of booty was secured.
Anno 692 after the Oeath of Muhammad^ (602 h.=1205 a.d.).
It ia mentioned in authentic histories that when Shah&bu'd
din was defeated by the Turks of Khit&, on his return from
Ehw&rizm, it was currently reported throughout the kingdom,
that Shah&bu-d din had been missed in the field of battle, and
there was no certainty whether he had perished or escaped.
Consequently, enemies rose up on all sides, and every one
encroached upon his territories. Among other enemies, one
named Bii S&I, who lived in the mountains between Lahore
and K&bul, having united with a number of Kokars, who dwelt
in those parts and paid tribute to the treasury of Shah&bu-d
din, excited a rebellion, began to jJunder that tracts and
^ [See Firishta, Briggs, toL I, p. 182.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
164 UAVUCSA AHMAD.
intercepted the oommunications between Lahore and Ghazni, so
that no one could pass from one to the other.
Fpon the return of Shahabu-d din to Ghazni m safety
from his campaign, he was informed of these transactions, and
consequently resolved to proceed to Hinddst&n, and punish
the rebellious apirits of that country. For this purpose, he
sent an order to Amir Muhammad, son of AM "^Ali, whom
he had appointed Governor of Lahore and Mult&n, desiring
them to despatch the tribute of the year 601 h. as soon as pos-
sible, as it was necessary to make preparations for an expedition
to Khit4. Muhammad, son of ^Ali, wrote in answer, that the
tribute of the year had been collected and was ready, but that
the Kokars and B&i S&t,^ who were in possession of the hills
of Jddi, had stopped the communication between Lahore and
Ghazni in such a manner that nobody could travel on the road.
When this account reached the ears of Shah&bu-d din, he wrote
to Eutbu-d din, his slave, who was the commander of the army
of Hind, desiring him to send some person to the Eokars to
dissuade them from persisting in such evil courses, and to inform
them, that if they repented of their disobedience and came again
under allegiance, he would pardon their past offences.
When Kutbu-d din Aibak, according to the order of Shah&bu-d
din sent a person to the Eokars, desiring them to submit them-
selves and to be obedient to the Sult&n, the son of Eokar^
replied, that Eutbu-d din had nothing to do with the matter,
that Sult&n Shah&bu-d din should have sent a special messenger
of his own, and fiirther, that if he were really alive, he should
have sent direct for the tribute, when the Eokars would have
despatched it to him. The ambassador replied, '^ You are not
of sufficient consequence for Sult&n Shah&bu-d din to send any
messenger to you ; it is a great honour to you that he has sent
even me, who am his slave's slave.** The son of Eokar replied,
*' This is a mere story, Shah&bu-d din is no longer alive.'" The
ambassador rejoined, *^It may easily be ascertained by your
^ [u0, the chief of the Eokara.] > Tod, voL ii. p. 25.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
n
TABrKH-I ALPr* 165
sending any one of jrottr confidential serrants who can go to
Ghazni, and see with his own eyes whether Shah&bn-d din be
alive or not." In short, the son of Kokar being determined not
to listen to the ambassador, remained firm in his rebellious dis-
position. When the ambassador of Kutbn-d dm returned, and
gave an accomit of what he had seen and heard, Eutbu^d dm
oommimicated the circumstances to Sult&n Shah&bu-d din, who
ordered him ta collect the several armies of Hindiist£n, to pro*
eeed against the Sokars, and to utterly exterminate the rebel
tribe. Wh^i this mandate reached Eutbu-d din, be was engaged
in preparing his forces, and was about to march against that
nation. In the mean time, Shah&bu-d din deferred his expedi-
tion to Ehit&, and caused his army to return. Gomplainlis of
the violence and oppression of the Eokars were frequently coming
in, accompanied with such accounts of their great and increasing
power, that he considered it his duty to repulse these people and
punish them severely, before marching his forces to any other
quarter. For this reason Shah&bu-d dfn gave up the idea ot
proceeding to Ehit&, and encamped in the neighbourhood of
Ghaznf.
On the 5th of Babf-ul awwal of the same year, Sult&n
Shah£bu-d din set forth firom Ghazni towards Hindust&n.
After some days he arrived at Persh&war, and learned that
the Eokars had taken up a position between Jilam and Sodra,^
with a large army. Having marched from Pershdwar on
Thursday the 25th of the said month, he attacked them
unawares, and the battle lasted from morning till the time of
afternoon prayer. The Eokars fought so valiantly, that the
Sult&n, with all his kingly power and glory, was very near
being compelled to retreat; but Eutbu-d din Aibak arrived
unexpectedly with the army of Hindustdn, and began to make
havoc among the Eokars. His forces were^ fresh and vigorous,
^ Sodia abore Wiueerlibfid. Jilam therefore u the town and not the riyer, and
the scene oonld not hare been far from onr glorions field of Goojerat. — See Ind.
AlUrihmuhmd$j toI. i., p. 799.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
166 lUULICirA ASKAS).
mi the Kokars, beis^ unable to wUheiwd them, took to ii^kL
The MmhapnwMidaiifl pwraainf;* dealt slaughter among them ia
a maimer vhich 4€fie8 all description. Those who escaped the
sword fled to the forest. The Mnhammadans set fire to their
retreat on all sides, aod the iofidels, resoMng to perish in the
flames rather than smrendw to the Mohammadans, threw them-
selves into the fire. In this manner all who had taken refbge
in the woods perifilied. When the mind of the SaU&n was
relieved from the anxiety of this outbreak, he marched towards
Lahore, and gave lea^e to his soldiers to return to their homes,
ordering them to maFch to Ehitd after a few days' repose.^
Anno 698 after the death of Muhammad^ (708 h.=1308 a.d.)
In this year Sultin 'AlAu-d din. King of Hindust&n, pro-
ceeded to Siw&na' on a bunting expedition, when the chief of
that place took to his fort and offered -opposition. The fort was
soon captnred, and this was the first occasion that it had been
taken. S&mal Deo^^ the chief {Mukaddam)^ perished, with several
thousands of Hindiis. In the same year, the fort of £&lwar
came into the possession of 'Al&u-d din's officers. The detail
1 This tribe ii rarioiuly denommated by Muhamrnadan anthon, Ktfkar, Kokar,
Oakkar, Ohikar, Ghakar. The last appears to be the most eonreet. ShoHilj after
this expedition they were oonverted to Isl&m, their chieftain having obtained his
release from captivity by becoming a proselyte, and promising to nse his endeayoun
to eoDTert his tnbe. They often iqipear solMeqnently upon the stage ol Indian
hiitory, and rarely .^at as tavbnlent and rapadoos maranders. Their descendants
have somewhat receded from their old hannts, and now occupy the oonntry to the
aonth and east of the npper oonrse of the Behat They eall themselTes desoeodnts
of the Kajftnians, but polyandry and some other of their customs wonld seem to
indicate a Tartar origin. Elphinstone in his Cabnl, page 78, says that on the spot
they caQ themselTes Gakkh6r ; Ehokars are quite different But it is evident that
in thii passage, as in others, the Kokaxs are meant for the Ghakan. In one of
Khtisr6's poems they are called Khokars, where nothing but Ghakars can be meant
Khto6*B KhauUn.
^ [Zi&u^ din Ban! does not reeoid the matters described in this £xtraci» bnt see
Firishta, Briggs, voL i., p. 870.]
* Tod (voL ii., p. 298) places this Siw&na in Mewar, not in Hozriaoa. It is
described in the London Olograph. Journal, vol. iv., p. 129.
* ["SltalDeo,*'Firishte.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
of ibe came is this : Eithar Deo, goTomor of the fbit of K41war,^
had apon one oocsasion gone to the Siilt4n to pay his reqpecis,
when the Sultin boasted that there iras no tamhMr at that
time in Hind4Bt&n who had power to withstand his tioope.
Upon this, E&thar Deo^ with exceeding folly, replied, that he
would die rather than stibmit tacitly to sudi an assamption»
The Sult&n being enraged at this, dismissed him, and he re*
tamed to his own coontiy. The Sultin then sent a female
slave, named Gnl Bihishty against him* €hil Bihisht had a son
called Malik Sh&hia, who accompanied her on the expedition,
and they besieged K&thar Deo. Just as the garrison were
beginning to despair, Gul Bihisht happened to die, and K&thar
Deo, sallying from the fort, attacked Malik Sh&hin and killed
him. Upon the death of both the son and mother, the command
of the army devolved on Kam&lu-d din, who took the fort, and
put K&thar Deo to death.
Cficatior.
[The campaign against Gwalior was one of the events of this
year (the third of the reign). The fort of G waller is one of
the most renowned in Hinddst&n,' and Salim Kh&n Afgh&n
(Isl&m Sb&h) made it his residence. Up to the present time it
remained in the hands of the Afgh&ns, and ^Adali had placed
Snhail,* one of Salim's slaves, in command of it. At this time,
when His Majesty took up his residence at Agra, he gave the
parganas in the neighbourhood of Gwalior as a jdgir to Kiy&
Kh&n. After a while, the Elh&n collected an army and invested
GKralior, but the place was so strong that he could make no
impression upon it. Suhail was a man of experience, and he
saw veiy clearly that it would be impossible to hold the fort
against the growing power of his Imperial neighbour. So he
sent a messenger to B>&m Sh&h, who belonged to the family of
> ["Nahr Deo, B&j& of Jalwar/' Firishta.]
> [The MS. calb him *<BabhaI,'* hut the other anthotitifif have the more likely
«»8uhML"]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
168 MAULiCNA AHMAD.
B&jd M&n Singh, the old ruler of Gwalior, offering to surrender
to him the fort, the ancient seat of his ancestors, on receipt of
a suitable payment. Suhail at the same time acknowledged that
he was unable to cope with the Imperial forces. B&m Sh&h,
who had been watching for such a chance, took with him the
money that he had, and went to Gwalior. Kiy& Eh&n, the
jdgirdar, attacked him, and a battle was fought, in which many
on both sides were killed. B&m Sh&h was defeated, and escaped
with difficulty, and went to the Bind of (XJdipur)].^
Mdlwa.
[In this year the Emperor sent Bah&dur Eh&n, brother of
£h&n-zam&n, to effect the conquest of M&lwa, which was in the
possession of B&z Bah&dur Afgh&n. Sult&n Bah&dur Gnjar&ti had
wrested this country out of the hands of the Khilji monarchs,
and the Emperor Hum&yun took this country from Gujar&t.
When, by the will of fate, Hinddst&n passed into the hands of
the Afghans, M&lwa also came into their possession, for the
Gujaratis were unable to hold it. Shuj&wal Kh&n,^ one of the
khassa-khail of Sher Kh&n (Sher Sh&h), was appointed governor
of the province. After the death of Sher Kh&n, Shujawal Khan
went to visit Salim Kh&n (Isl&m Sh&h), and dissensions having
arisen between them, he fled to M&lwa. Salim Kh&n marched
to M&Iwa against him, and Shuj&wal Kh&n, being unable to
resist, fled to the mountains of Dhungarpdr. Finally, after
vows and compacts were made, he joined Salim Kh&n, who took
him to Hindus t&n, and divided M&lwa among other amirs. In
the reign of 'Adali, Shuj&wal Kh&n recovered M&lwa, and there
died. He was succeeded by his son B&z Bah&dur, and when
the Afgh&ns were scattered over Hinddst&n by the conquering
Ghaghat&is, B&z Bah&dur established himself as permanent
ruler of M&lwa. When Bah&dur Kh&n marched against him,
1 [Surrender of the fort to Akbar.—Soe TdbahdUi Akbari,'\
» [More correctly " Shuj&'at Kh&n."]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARIKH-I ALFr. 169
the affiiirs of Bairam Eh&n-kh&i&n came to a crisis, and the
campaign in M&lwa was stayed.]
Conquest of Oarha (Year 958 Rihlat ; 968 h.=1560 a.d.).^
[Khw&ja 'Abdu*l Majid, who had received the title of Asaf
£h&n» was appointed governor of Karra, and in that province he
rendered good service. One of his services was the conquest of
Crarha, a territory abounding in hills and jungles, which had
never been conquered by any ruler of Hind since the rise of
the faith of Isl&m. At this time it was governed by a woman
called Rdni^ and all the dogs of that country were very faithful
and devoted to her. Kaa£ Kh&n had frequently sent emissaries
into her country on various pretexts, and when he had learnt
all the circumstances and peculiarities of the country, and the
position and treasures of the B&ni, he levied an army to conquer
the country. The B&ni came forth to battle with nearly 500
elephants and 20,000 horse. The armies met and both did their
best. An arrow struck the R&ni, who was in front of her horse*
men, and when that noble woman saw that she must be taken
prisoner, she seized a dagger from her elephant-driver, and
plunged it into her stomach, and so died, ^af Kh&n gained
the victory, and stopped his advance at the tdluk of Ghaur&garh,
where the treasures of the rulers of Garha were kept. The son
of the Rdni shut himself up in the fort, but it was taken the
same day, and the youth was trampled to death by horses. So
much plunder in jewels, gold, silver, and other things was taken,
that it was impossible to compute the tenth part of it. Out of
all the plunder, ^af Kh&n sent fifteen elephants to Court, and
retdned all the rest for himself.]
Ci^ture ofChitor (Year 965 Rihlat; 975 Hijra = 1567 a.d.).
[When the Emperor marched from G&grun against the B&n&,
he had only 3000 or 4000 horsemen with him, for he hoped that
1 [The Tahakdt and the Akbmr-ndma place this event three yean later. See
mfrd.^
Digitized by VjOOQIC
170 lumjoxA isMU).
thio smallnefls of ike £>roe might induoe the infidel to tiy tlie
event of a battle. But the E&n& knew hia own strength, and
while the Emperor was at 100 kos distance from his ooontrj, he
fled with his family to the distant hiUs. He felt at ease about
Chitor^ beeoose the Emperor's force had but little siege appa-
ratus, and it did not seem likely that he would attempt to
reduce the place. But the fort was set in order, great quantities
of provisions were stored, and the garrison consisted of 8000
veterans, including the B&n&^s 0¥ni men, with their wives and
jGunilies. When the Emperor entered the lUn&'s territory, and
was informed of his flight, he wished to pursue him ; but he
ascertained that the B4n& had gone to a place fitr in the hills and
jungles which it was impossible to reach. So the Emperor
determined to attack Ghitor, which is an exceedingly atrong
fortress. When he came near the fort, the rains were so heavy,
that for a time the fort was invisible; but as the weather cleared,
he got a view of the place. The fortress is situated in the midst
of a level plain, which has no other eminences. The circuit of
this mountain at its base is six iasj and the ground upon which
the walLs of the fort stand is nearly three ko8. Upon the top of
the hill there is a fountain, but not content with that the con-
structors of the fort formed large reservoirs of stone and mortar,
which get filled in the rainy season. So with these supplies the
garrison are never short of water. The eastern side of the fort,
and towards the north, is faced with hard stone, and the garrison
felt quite secure as to that portion. On the other sides if guns
(top)^ swivels (zarb'Zan)^ catapults {aang-t^ad)^ and mat^janklu
are able to reach the fortress, they cannot do so much harm.
Travellers do not speak of any fi>rtress like this in the whole
habitable world. At this time, all the space of three ko% at the
top of the mountain was frill, and the houses of the people rose
several storeys over each other. Great numbers of men guarded
the battlements at the top of the walls, and great quantities of
ammunition were stored in the fortress. His Majesty carefully
reconnoitred the place on every side, and saw that it would not
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABTKHpI alft. 171
fidl witfaoot a long siege. When the gimson peroeived the small
niunber of men with the Emperor, and thought of their fortiesB
bdng nxkos ia eireamference, thej uttered eriee of derision.
The batteries were apportioned out among the amirt» and bakA^
Mt were appointed and sent to those amir9 who had not yet
eome up. TSybtj daj some one arrired and went to his battery,
60 that in a short time tike whole fort was invested.
iCsaf Kh&n went nnder orders to take B&oipdr. He took
the place, and haying phmdered and raraged the oonntry, he
retomed victorioos. Hosain Kuli Ehin went to attack XJdipfir,
the eapital of the R&n4 and of his ancestors. He ravaged the
eonntry with fire and sword, and returned bringing great spoil
and nnmerous prisoners from the fiistnesses of the monntains.
From day to day the brare assailants carried their attacks closer
to the fort on every side, and a great number of them suffered
martyrdom, for the fort was very strong, and made a most ex*
eeUent d^noe. Orders were given for digging ditches and for
constructing 9dhdU^ and neariy 6000 builders, carpenters, stone-
masons, smiths, and sappers were collected from all parts. BdbdU
axo contrivances pecaliar to Hindiistin ; for the strong forts of
that country are replete with guns, muskets, and warlike appa-
ratus, and can only be taken by means of MdU. A Mdi is a
broad (covered) way, under the shriter of which the assailants
approach a fortress secure from the fire of guns and muskets.
Two 96bdt9 were accordingly begun. The one which was oppo-
site the royal quarters was so broad that two elephants and two
horses could easily pass along it, and so high that an elephant-
rider could carry his spear. The %ibiU were commenced from
the middle of the hill, which is a fortress upon a fortress.* The
people of the fort had never seen a iibdt^ and were puzzled, but
they endeavoured to stop the work. Seven or eight thousand
horsemen and numerous gunners exerted themselves to the
^ [See Oie Extract! from the Tabakdl-i Akbari, infrd; abo Briggi* FiriBhta,
ToL ii, p. 830.]
■ JJ^ gJyU j:SXa 4^bLj J CjjJL iZ^ ^ji aJj i t/^^j^j^^
Digitized by VjOOQIC
172 MAUUICNA AHMAD.
ntroost in attacking them. And althoagh the sdbdts had thick
roo& of cow and buffalo hides to protect the workmen, no day
passed without a hundred men more or less being killed. The
bodies of the slain were used instead of stones and bricks. His
Majesty's kindness and justice would not allow any man to be
pressed for the work, but heaps of rupees and ddms were scattered
as hire, and each man went to work for what he could get. In
a short time one sdbdt reached the walls, and was so high that
it oyerlooked them. On the top of it a seat was constructed
for the Emperor, from which he could see at his ease the efforts
of his warriors, and from which he could also take a part in
the fight if so minded. While the men of the garrison were
endeavouring to interrupt the progress of the sdbdts, the sappers
formed several mines under the walls, and wherever stones were
met with, the stonemasons opened a way through with their iron
tools. Two bastions in £ront of the royal battery were com'>
pletely undermined, and, according to order, both mines were
filled with gunpowder. Three or four hundred brave men of the
Imperial army were posted ready armed near these bastions, to
rush in as soon as the explosion took place, before the defenders
could rally to resist them. Both mines were fired, and one
which took effect blew the bastion from its foundations into the
air, and every stone fell at a distance. A great breach was
visible, and the storming party instantly rushed forward shout-
ing their war-cry. A strong party of the garrison came forward
to oppose them, and while the contest was at the hottest, and a
great number of the faithAil and of the infidels were struggling
upon the other bastion, the mine exploded, and blew friend and
foe together into the air, scattering their limbs in all directions.^
The quantity of gunpowder used was so enormous that stones
of fifty and a hundred mans were hurled to the distance of two
and three kos. Many corpses also were found within a radius of
two kos, Saiyid Jam&lu-d din and * * * other braves of the
Imperial army perished. Vast numbers of the garrison were
^ [fiad&6ni teils us that the matches were not properly adjusted.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABTKH-I ALFr. 173
IdUed. The vast quantities of dust and smoke preyented all
movement in the Imperial army for a time ; stones, corpses, and
limbs fell from the air, and the eyes of the soldiers were injured.
The esemy, concealing their loss, showed a brave front. When
the Emperor perceived the state of affairs, he exerted himself
more strenuously to take the place. He ordered the sdbdt in
front of Shuj&'at Kh&n^s battery to be pushed forward. The
garrison was sore distressed, and ready to succumb, but no one
had the courage to propose surrender to the Emperor. For he
had determined that he would capture by storm this the
strongest fortress of Hindust&n, so that in future no other
fortress should dare to resist the Imperial army. He took his
position on the top of the sdbdt^ and his brave soldiers kept up
such a discharge from their bows and muskets that no one could
escape from the place. His Majesty also had his own musket,
deadly as the darts of &te, with which he killed every moving
thing that caught his eye. On the 5th Sha'b&n, 955, the assault
was made by the Emperor's command. The walls had been
breached in several places, and the signs of victory were in favour
of the assailants. Jaimal, the commandant of the fortress, an
infidel yet valiant, all day long struggled bravely in every part,
inciting his men to fight and resist. At the time of evening
prayer he came in front of the royal battery, where His Majesty,
holding his musket, discharged it as often as light blazed out in
the bastion. It so often happened that Jaimal was standing in
that tower when His Majesty discharged his piece into a lighted
place. The ball struck Jaimal in the forehead and killed hitn on
the spot. When the men of the garrison saw their leader fal],
they felt that all further resistance was useless ; they gave up
fighting, and after first burning the body of Jaimal, they per-
formed the jauhar at their own homes. Jauhar is the name of
a rite among the Hindus. When they know for certain that
there is no escape, they collect their wives and children, goods
and chattels^ heap fire-wood around the pile, and fire it with
their own hands. After the burning is accompUshed, they rush
Digitized by VjOOQIC
174 UAXJUL^K AHICAD.
into tke fight, and give themselyes orer to deoih. Thia thej
eBteem a great act of derotion. The gsest ftames of the j'atAar
and the lull of the eonAict on the bastioiui and walls showed the
assaiUmts that the garrisoa was reduced to extremity, so they
began to make their way into the place ia parties;. Some of tke
boldest of the in&dels, who had no wives and finnilies, stood to
their posts resolved to sell their lives. The Emperor witaessed
the prowess of his warriors firom the tep of the 9ilM. Undor
his orders three elephants were taken thiwigh the breach into
the city, and one of them, named Madkar, on that day kUkd
many infideb, and although he ree^red many wonnds, nev«r
turned tail. The second elephant, named Jagna, was sarrocmded
by infidels, and died of the nameroos wounds he received fros
spears and sward& In the hat watch of the night the assaibmis
forced their way into the fortress in several places, and fell to
slaughtering and plundering. At early dawn the Emperor went
in mounted on an elephant, attended by his nobles and chiefe on
foot* The order was given for a general massacre of the infideh
as a punishment. The number of fighting men in the fortress
esLceeded 8000.^ Some of them repaired to the idol temple, and
there fought to the last. In every street and lane and bdzdr
there was desperate fighting. Every now and then a band of
infidels, having thrown away all hope of life, would rush from
the temple with swords and shields towards their own homes,
and so were the more easily despatched by the warriors they
encountered. By mid-day, nearly 2000 had been slain. Under
the favour of heaven, Zarb ^Ali Taw&chi was the only person ot
note in the Imperial army who was killed, which was » very
marvellouB fact. Those of the fortress who escaped the sword,
men and women, were made prisoners, and their property came
into the hands of the Musulmdns. The place being cleared ef
infidels^ His Majesty remained there three days, and tben
^ [Aba-l Fazl stateff thst there were 40,000 peasants on seryioe in tiie plaee
U addition io the 8000 Efcjpnte forming the guximm^'^jLkbar'mdma, tqL ii^
p. 407.1
Digitized by VjOOQIC
METKH-I ALPr. 175
departed, kayiag the gOTemment of ike eountrjr is the hands
of A^Khin.]
ChnfW9i ofBmiambhor (966 Bihlat ; 976 H^ra = 1568 a.d.).
[The Emperor then marched against Bantambhor, and en-
eamped before the fortress at the end of the month of Shal)^.
The place was held by B&( Suijan, who had bought it of
Hig&z Eh&n» a servant of Salim Elh&n (Isl&m Sh&h). On
serenil oeeasions before, nilers of Hindust&n had besieged this
fort for five or six years, and Surjan B&i, confident in its
strength, stored it with necessaries and closed its gates, but he
had the fiu^ of the &11 of Ghitor before his eyes. The Emperor
reconnoitred the fort, gave directions for the placing of batteries,
dosed the ways of ingress and egress, and commenced the con-
struction of sdbdts. Near to the fort is a hill called Ran,^ which
commands it ; but in consequence of the height of the hill and
the difficulty of the ascent, no one had as yet been able to get
guns up on it. His Majesty now directed that some guns (tap)
and swivels (zarb-zan) should be placed on the hills, such pieces as
200 pairs of bullocks would have drawn with difficulty on heavy
ground. In a few days from ten to* fifteen guns, capable of dis-
charging stones of fifty, forty, and twenty mana^^ were dragged
up the hill by the labour of porters. The first shot discharged
struck the house of Surjan K&i, and made him very apprehen-
sive. Every shot destroyed several houses, and the garrison was
so fiightened that all spirit of resistance disappeared. Suijan
B&i being helpless, sent his sons Dddh and Bhoj out to
obtain terms. His Majesty, pitying their condition, promised
that Surjan B&i should be forgiven if he came and waited on the
Emperor. Joyfully the two young men returned to their father
^ [Fuishia caUs this bill " Madan/* which is probably an error, as Ab6-1 Fazl,
Bad&iiiif, and Faizi aU agree with the anthor of the Tdrikh*i A\fi in calling it
"Ran."]
' [Bad&6ni is more moderate, and says " five or seren mant,** He tells ns that
700 or 800 labonrers were employed in dragging the gona. Text, yoI. ii., p. 107.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
176 MAULANA AHMAD.
with the promise of safety. Sdrjan B&( b^ged that one of the
Emperor'^s amirs should be sent to conduct him to the presence,
and Husain Kuli Kh&n, governor of the Panj&b, was sent into
the fort on this duty. On the 3rd Shawwdl, Sdrjan B&f came
out and waited upon the Emperor. He offered a large tribute,
and gave up the keys of the fortress, which were made of gold
and silver. He asked for three days' grace for his followers and
people to remove their femilies and property out of the place,
which was granted, and at the end of this time the fort with
its munitions was surrendered to the royal officers. Thus this
strong place was taken in one month, and was placed under the
command of Mihtar Kh&n.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
177
XL.
TABAKiifT-I AKBARr
OP
NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD, BAKHSHr.
^ Thb author of this Work styled it Tabakdt-i Akbar-shdhi, and
it IS so called by 'Abdu-l K&dir Bad&uni in his Muntakhabu-t
Tawdrikh; but the name by \vhich it is best known in literary
circles is TahcAdt-i AkbarL It is also called, after the name of
the author, Tdrikh-i Nutdmi^ and the author himself observes it
as a fortunate coincidence that the word Nizdmi represents the
date of its composition. In the Rauzatu-i Tdhirin it seems to be
called Tdrikh^ Sultdn Nizdmi.
This is one of the most celebrated histories of India, and is the
first that was composed upon a new model, in which India alone
forms the subject-matter of the work, to the exclusion of the
histories of other Asiatic countries. The work seems to have
been recognized by all contemporary historians as a standard
history; subsequent writers also have held it in the highest
estimation, and have borrowed from it freely. Bad&uni, the
author of the Muntakhabt^t Tawdrikh^ professes his work to be
simply an abridgment of this, and acknowledges himself to be
chiefly indebted to it for the relation of all events down to a.h.
1002' (1593 A.D.). Firishta states that of all the histories he
consulted, it is the only one he found complete.
The Ma-dsini-l Uhiard says, " This work cost the author much
care and reflection in ascertaining facts and collecting materials,
1 [This article is chiefly the work of Sir H. Elliot, and appeared in the old yolome,
but it has been re-cast by the Editor, and several additions have been made from
Col. Lees' article in Jonm. Boy. As. Soc., vol. i?. (ir.s.), and from other sources.]
* The author of the Tdrikh-i StUdtin-i Afdghana copied the reign of Ham&ydn
Terbatim. See tatpr d, p. 2.
vox,. T. 12
Digitized by VjOOQIC
178 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
and as Mir Ma^sdm Bhakarl and other persons of note afforded
their assistance in the compilation, it is entitled to much credit.
It is the first history which contains a detailed account of all
the Muhammadan princes of Hinddst&n. * * From this work
Muhammad K&sim Firishta and others have copiously extracted,
and it forms the basis of their histories, deficiencies being sup-
plied by additions of their own ; but the Tabakdi occasionally
seems at variance with the accounts given by the celebrated
Abu-1 Fazl. It is therefore left to the reader to decide which of
the two authors is most entitled to credit."
European authors also hold the work in high esteem. Mr.
Erskine considers Niz&mu-d din to be perhaps the best historian
of the period, and Col. Lees is unable to conceive the reason why
his work has not attracted more attention.
The Ma-dsirU'l JJmard gives the following account of our
author.
Khw&ja Niz&mu-d din Ahmad was the son of Ehw&ja Mukim
Harawi^ who was one of the dependents of His Majesty B&bar,
and who, at the latter part of that king's reign, was raised to the
office of diwdii of the household.^ After the death of B&bar,
when Gujar&t was conquered by Hum&yiin, and the province of
Ahmad&b&d was entrusted to Mirz& ^Askari, Ehw&ja Mukim
was appointed wazir to the Mirza. He accompanied Humayun
to Agra, when that monarch fled with precipitation after his
defeat by Slier Kh&n Sur at Chaunsa. The Khw&ja subse-
quently served under Akbar.
His son, Niz&mu-d din, was incomparably upright, and ex-
celled all his contemporaries in administrative knowledge, as well
as in the clearness of his intellect. It is stated in the ZakAiratu-l
Khawdniriy that, at the opening of his career, he was appointed
diwdn of the household by Akbar, but this statement has not
been found in any other work.
In the twenty-ninth year of Akbar^s reign, when the govern-
ment of Gujar&t was entrusted to 'Itimad Kh&n, Khwaja
1 He is Bpoken of in Bkbar^s Memoirs.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 179
Niz&ma-d din was appointed to the office of bakhshi of that pro-
Yince, and when Sult&n Muzaffar of Gujar&t engaged in hostilities,
'Itim&d Eh&n left the Khw&ja's son, together nvith his own, to
protect the city, he himself with the Khw&ja having quitted it,
with the object of bringing over Shah4ba-d din Ahmad Kh&n
from Kari, which is situated at the distance of fortjr miles from
Ahmad&b&d; but during their absence the city fell into the
hands of the insurgents, and the house of the Ehw&ja was plun-
dered. After this, in a battle which was fought with those
turbulent people, the Khw&ja used his best exertions ta quell
the insurrection with his small body of troops, in conjunction
with Shah&bu-d din Kh&n and 'Itim&d Kh&n, but without
success ; and he therefore retreated to Fattan«
On the occasion of (Mirz& Kh&n) the Kh&n-kh&n&n's attack
upon MuzaffiEU* Gujar&ti, at Bir Ganj, about six miles from
Ahmad&b&d» the Ehw&ja was appointed at the head of a de-
tachment to attack the enemy from the rear, but in this action
he again did not achieye any great success, though he used his
best exertions. Niz&mu-d din continued for a long time bakhaM
of the province of Gujar&t, and his services will be found re-
corded in his history of Akbar's reign.
In 998 AH., and the thirty-fourth year of the reign (1589-90
A,n.), when the govemm^it of Gujar&t was entrusted to Kh4ii-i
''Azam the Subad&r of M&lwa, and Jaunptir was bestowed upon
Eh&n-kh&n&n in lieu of his jdgir of Gujar&t, Niz&mu-d din
Ahmad was summoned to the King's presence; upon which
occasion, with a number of camel-riders, he accomplished 1,200
miles by forced marches, and arrived at Lahore^ on the festival
of the thirty-fifth anniversary of the coronation. His camel-
riders and retinue being an object of great attraction and wonder-
ment, the King expressed a desire to inspect tbem ;. and as he
was much gratified at this exhibition of the Khw&ja's taste and
ingenuity, he conferred great honours upon him.
1 The WdKdt'i Muahtdkl (MS. fol. 204 y.) says, that the party completed this
distance of 600 koa in twelve days, i.«. at the rate of 100 miles a day.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
180 NIZAMir-D DfN AHMAD.
In the thirty-seventh year of the reign, when Asaf E^&n
Mirz& Ja'far Bakhshi-begi was ordered to destroy Jal&la Baa-
shanf, the Ehw&ja was appointed to the post of bakhshi. In
the thirty*ninth year of the reign, corresponding with 1003 h.,
when the King was out on a hunting excursion, the Ehw^ja was
attacked with a severe fever at Shah&m ^Ali, which reduced him
very much. His sons obtained permission from the King to
convey him to Lahore, but as soon as they arrived at the banks
of the B&vi, the Khw&ja expired, and ^^ the crocodile of death
dragged him into the sea of annihilation."
'Abid Kh&n, one of Niz&mu-d din^s sons, was favoured with
frequent marks of distinction by His Majesty Jah&ngir, and was
employed by him in various capacities. The office of bakhsU of
the 8&ba of Gujardt, which devolved on him by hereditary right,
was resigned, owing to a disagreement between him and ^Abdu-lla
Kh&n Firoz Jang, governor of that province, by whom he was
most shamefully treated. After resigning the appointment, he
took only two sheets, the one wrapped round his waist, and
the other round his head, as if prepared for burial, and went
thus before Jahdngir, accompanied by several Tdkiya Mughals.
This mark of his humiliation was approved of by the King, and
he was pardoned. He was afterwards appointed an immediate
attendant of the King, through the recommendation of the heir-
apparent, and was subsequently promoted to the office of diwdn
of that prince. While holding this emplojunent, he, with Sharif
Kh&n Bakhshi, and several others of the body-guard, was killed
at Akbar-nagar in Bengal, in a battle fought by the prince on
the burial-ground where the body of the son of Ibr&him Kh&n
Fath Jang was interred. 'Abid Kh&n had no son. His son-
in-law, Muhammad Sharif, was for a short time governor of a
strong fortress in the Dekhin, and was afterwards appointed
htyib (chamberiain) of Haidar&b&d, in which capacity he passed
the remainder -of his days till his death.^
'Abdtt-1 K&dir Bad&uni, who, like many others, was as staunch
*• Mth-dstru-l Umardf 8.r. Ehwfija Niz&mn-d din.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AEBAEr. 181
a friend as he was a bitter foe, gives a very favourable account
of Niz&mu-d din. He says that in carrying into effect his pro-
jects of economy, Niz4mn-d d(n gave offence to K&lfj Kh&n,
but that he received such unqualified support from the Emperor,
who entertained the highest opinion of his zeal and integrity,.
that his opponent, togetbe> with his adherents, were soon pro-
vided for in distant posts, instead of being kept at Court, to
frustrate the endeavours of Niz&mu-d din to introduce reform
into the departments under his control.
'* Niz&mu-d din/' continues '^Abdu-l K&dir, ^^eft a good name
behind him. I was especially attached to him by the ties-
both of religion and friendship. When he died, tears of sorrow
fell from my eyes, and I beat my breast with the stone of
despair. After a short time, I bowed in resignation to the
heavenly decree, but was so much afflicted by the bereavement,
that I vowed I would never thereafter cultivate a new friendship
with any other man. He died on the 23rd of Safar, 1003, and
was buried m his own garden at Lahore. There was not a dry
eye at his death, and there was no person who did not, on the
day of his funeral, call to mind his excellent qualities, and who
did not hold between his teeth the back of the hand of grief.
The following Chronogram records the date of his death : Mirz4
Niz&mu-d din has departed ; in haste, but with honour, has he
gone to his final doom. His sublime soul has fled to the celestial
regions^ and K&diri has found the date of his death in thes&
words, ^ A jewel without price has left this world.' '' ^
The author of the Tabakdt-i Akbari assigns as his reasons for
composing his work, that he had ''from his youth, according to
the advice of his father, devoted himself to the study of works
of history, which are the means of strengthening the under-
standing of men of education, and of affording instruction by
examples to men of observation.'^ He found that in '' the wide
1 Mtmtdkhabu't Tawdrikh, [Ab(i-1 FaxI also, in the Akbar~ndmat alludes to the
geoeral moaniing that followed the death of this distingaished author ; and says that
the Emperor was deeply affected by it, and offered prayers for his soul.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
182 NIZAMIT-D DrN AHMAD.
plains of BindHsUn, which form an empire of vast extent,^ tbe
^'governing classes had assumed the title and discharged the
daties of rulers" in many of its divisions, ^^such as Dehli,
Gnjar&t, M&lwa, Bengal, and Sindh," and ^* the authors of their
times have written histories of their affairs, and have bequeathed
them as memorials to posterity. * * ^ It is most extraordinary,
therefore, that n»t a smgle work containing a complete com-
pendium of the affairs of this (entire) division (of the world)
has yet been written by any historian ; neither have the events
connected with the centre of Hindust&n, the seat of govern-
ment of this Empire, the capital DehH, been collected in one
book. The work which is best known is the Tabakdt-i NdsiH
which Minh&ju-s Sir&j compiled, commencing with Sult&n
Mu'izzu-d din Ghorf, and concluding with N&siru-d din bin
Shamsu-d din: from thence to the time of Sult&n Firoz is
written in the history of Zi&-i Bami; but from that time to
to-day, because for the greater portion of the time there was
much disturbance in India, and the people had the misfortune
to be deprived of a powerful Imperial government, I have only
met with a few detached and incomplete compilations. I have
not heard of a single history that comprises an account of the
whole of India ; and now since the whole of the inlying and out-
lying provinces of Hindust&n have been conquered by the world-
subduing sword of God's vicegerent, and all the fractions of the
earth have been united in one grand whole, and many kingdoms
beyond the confines of Hindust&n, which none of the great
sovereigns who preceded His Majesty had ever acquired^ have
been included in his Empire, and it is to be hoped that the seven
climes will yet come under the shade of the standard of the
good fortune of that illustrious personage, and thus be protected
and secure peace and prosperity, I conceived tbe idea of com-
piling, in a simple style, a history which should embrace an
account of all the kingdoms of Hindust&n^ from the times of
Subuktigin, 367 a.h. (which is the date of the introduction of
Islam into Hinddst&n), up to 1901 a.h., or the thirty-seventh
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAET. 183
year of the Il&hi era, diyiding it into chapters, according to the
several dynasties which reigned, closing each chapter with an ac-
eonnt of the conquest by His Imperial Highness of the particular
province under notice. This abridgment of all the victories of
Hia Imperial Highness will be given in the proper place ; the
aeooont of these victories in full detail being found in the Akbar-
ndttULt which Ulldmi Abu-1 Fazl has compiled with so much
ability/'^ He quotes twenty-nine different works as his standard
authorities, and in the instance of the Tdrikh-i Mubdrak-ShdM
he copied his original very closely.' Though he states in his
Preface, as above, that he brings down the history to the thirty-
seventh year of Akbar's reign (a.h. 1001), in the body of the
work he records the events of another year, and expresses a hope
that he may live to carry on the work to a later period.
Niz&mu-d din was a good Musulm&n, and no allusion is made
in his pages to Akbar's wanderings from the fold. But with the
information derivable from other sources a tolerably accurate
inference may be drawn from the gradual diminution and
eventual cessation of the records of Akbar's pilgrimages to the
tombs of the saints.
Sir H. Elliot adopted the Table of Contents given by Stewart
in his Catalogue of Tipu Sult&n's Library, although he found
that it contained both more and less than he had seen in other
copies. The following table is borrowed from Mr. Morley, who
had the advantage of several MSS. to compare. It agrees, as he
says, with the author''s own account of the contents in his intro-
duction, and the only difference found is in the order of sequence
of the books.
CONTENTS.
Introduction. — History of the Ghaznivides from the time of
Subuktigin to that of Ehusru Malik bin Khusru Sh&h, King of
Lahore, who was conquered by Sh&habu-d din Muhammad Ghori
in A.H. 583 (a.d. 1187), and was subsequently put to death by
his order.
» [Col. Leei, Jonni. Roy. Aa. Soc., yoI. iii. (n.s.), p. 460.] » [See Vol. IV., p. 6.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
184 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
Book I. — ^History of the Kings of Dehli from the time of
Shah&bu-d din Muhammad Ghori; oomprifliDg: The histoiy
of Kutbu-d din Aibak; Taja-d din Yalddz; N&siru-d din
Eub&cha; Bah&u-d din Tughril; The first foar Ehilji Prinees
of Lakhnauti ; Snlt&n Shamsa-d din Altamsh ; Ajrim Sh&h and
hia successors at Dehli ; The house of Tughlik ; The Saiyids ;
The A%h&n Kings of Dehli, from Bahlol Lodi to the defeat of
Ibr&him, son of Sikandar Lodi, by B&bar, in a.h. 932 (a.d. 1525);
B&bar; Hum&yun; Sher Sb&h (who expelled Hum&yun), and
his successors, to the extinction of the Afgh4n power at Dehli,
and Akbar's succession to the throne, continuing the history of
Hinddst&n to the thirty-eighth year of Akbar's reign, 1002 a.h.
(1693 A.D.)
Book II. — A concise history of the Kings of the Dekhin,
comprising: The Bahmani dynasty, from "^Aldu-d din Hasan,
who founded the monarchy in a.h. 748 (a.d. 1347), to its extinc*
tion in a.h. 935 (a.d. 1528) ; The Niz&m-sh&hi Kings of the
Bahri dynasty of Ahmadnagar, from the foundation of the
monarchy to a.h. 999 (a.d. 1590), when Burhdn Niz&m Sh&h
was still reigning ; The "^dil-sh&hi Kings of Bij4pur, from the
origin of the dynasty to a.h. 1002 (a.d. 1593), when Ibrahim
^Adil Sh&h II. was on the throne ; The Kutbu-1 Mulkiya Kings
of Golconda, from their origin to a.h. 1002 (a.d. 1693), when
Muhammad Kuli Kutb Sh&h was regnant.
Book III. — The history of the Kings of Gujar&t, from the
beginning of a.h. 793 (a.d. 1390), to a.h. 980 (a.d. 1572).
when that kingdom became a province of Akbar's empire.
Book IV.— The history of M&lwa, from a.h. 809 (a.d. 1406),
to its incorporation with the kingdom of Gujar&t in a.h. 937
(a.d. 1530); and a continuation of the history to a.h. 977
(a.d. 1569), when B&z Bah&dur submitted to Akbar after a reign
of sixteen years.
Book Y. — History of Bengal, from the time of Sult&n
Fakhru-d din in a.h. 741 Ca.d. 1340) to a.h. 984 (a.d. 1676),
when D&ud bin Sulaim&n Kir&ni was defeated by Akbar's
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEt. 186
forces and slain, and Bengal was annexed to the empire of the
Mughals.
Book VI. — ^The histoiy of the Shark! dynasty of Jaunpur,
from the oommencement of a.h. 784 (a.d. 1382), the time of
the accession of Khw&ja Jah&nu-sh Sharki, the first indepen-
dent King of Jaunpur, to the extinction of the monarchy in
A^. 881 (A.a 1476), when Sult&n Hnsain bin Mahmud Sh&h
Sharki was defeated by Sikandar bin Bahlol, King of Dehli.
Book YIL — History of the Muhammadan Kings of Kashmir
from A.H. 715 (A.D. 1315) to a.h. 992 (a.d. 1584), that is, from
the time of Shamsu-d din Sh&h Mihr to the period when Yusof
Shah agreed to pay tribute to the Mughal Emperor.
Book VIII.— History of Sind, from a.h. 86 (a.d. 705), but
more especially of the dynasties of the J&ms and Arghuns, to
the sabmission of Mirz& J&ni Beg to Akbar, and the final
annexation of the whole province to the Mughal empire in
A.H. 1001 (a.d. 1592).
Book IX. — The history of Mult&n, from the Muhammadan
conquest under Muhammad Kasim, but more particularly of the
independent monarchy established by Shaikh Ydsuf in a.h. 847
(a.d. 1443), to the time when the province was annexed to the
Mughal empire.
Conclusion. — ^A concise statement, comprised in a few lines, of
the area of Akbar's empire, the number of cities and villages
therein, and of its revenue.
The compiler of the Sahihu^l Akhbdr attributes another work
on Indian History under the name of Tdrikh-i Trich to the
aathor of the Tabakdt-i Akbari,
The Extracts from this work which follow are of considerable
length. The reigns of Hum4yun and Akbar have been trans-
lated by the Editor in full, and supply a complete translation of
this the most important portion of the work.
The Tabakdt'i Akbari is one of the commonest histories pro-
curable in India, but (says Sir H. Elliot) I have met with no
Digitized by VjOOQIC
186 NIZAMXr-D DfN AHMAD.
remarkably good copy. In the Bodleian Library it is the only
work on Indian History noticed by XJri, except an imperfect one
on the reigns of Hum&yiin, Akbar, and Jah&ngir.^ There are
several complete or partial copies in the Library of the East
India Office.
The Tabakdt-i Akbari ends with a promise, which does not
appear to have been fulfilled. As several copies, procured from
distant places^ concur in this reading, and as the author continaed
almost till the day of his death the history of Akbar's reign, it
seems probable that he never wrote the Conclusion which he
promised in his Preface, as it is now comprised in ten lines.
It gives merely the computed area, populousness, and revenue
of Hindustan, respecting which the author observes : '* Be it
not concealed, that the country of Hinddst&n is comprised
within four climates, and is now included in the dominions of
the Emperor Akbar. Its length from the Hindu Eoh, on the
borders of Badakhsh&n, to the country of Orissa, which is on
the borders of Bengal, from west to east, is 1680 legal k<>8. Its
breadth from Kashmir to the hills of Bartijh (Broach), which is
on the borders of Surat and Gujar&t, is 800 kos U&hi. Another
mode is to take the breadth from the hills of Kam&un to the
borders of the Dekhin, which amounts to 1000 U&hi kos. The
soil is well adapted for cultivation, and within each Atm are
several inhabited villages. At the present time, namely a.h,
1002, Hindust&n contains 3200 towns, and upon each town there
are dependent 200, 500, 1000, or 1500 villages.^ The whole
yields a revenue of 640 krors (640,00,00,000) murddi iankaa?
^ Uri, BibL Bodi. Codd. MS8. Orient Catal.—Codd. MSS. Pen. xli. lii. lir. The
MS. called IHHkh-i 8her Shdhi, No. 1581, £. I. 0. ColL, iB a portion of thk
Tabakdt'i Akbari, The passage with which it concludes jnst precedes that with
which the Tabakdi-i Akbari terminates. Mr. Morley's mention of the year 1002 aa
the date of its composition led to this identification. See Dorn*s Mist, ofAfgkiau^
Pref. xii. ' One MS. omits the 1600.
* [Mr. Thomas estimates the yalne of the tanka murddi, here quoted, at 20 to the
sihw tanka. The current tanka of account at this time was the Sikandari tmnhm
of Sikandar hin BahloL So that the sum total here specified of 640,00,00,000 -i- 20
amounts to 32,00,00,000 tilver tankaa or rupees (or £32,000,000). Chronidee of th*
Fathdn Kinge^ pp. 366, 884, 388, KnUBivenue JUwurcee of the Mughal £mpire, p. 7.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKATJ AEBART. 187
Of the towns, 120 are large cities.*" He then finishes with these
words : ^' As the particulars of the towns are not included in
this summary, a detailed list of the towns shall be drawn up in
alphabetical order/'
JULTKACrS.
Ha2rat Ehakan-i Sa'Id Muhammad Humatuk Shah, sok
OF Babar Shah Ghazi.^
When the Emperor B&bar departed from this fleeting world at
Agra for his everlasting abode in Paradise, Muhammad Mukim
Harawi, lather of the author of this history, was one of the
officials of his late Majesty, and had been promoted to the
position of diwdn of the household. Amir Niz&mu-d din ^Ali
Khalifa was chief administrator of the State, and in consequence
of some things which had occurred in the course of worldly
business, he had a dread and suspicion of the young Prince
Hnm&yun, and was unfriendly to his succession. And if he was
not content with the accession of the eldest son, neither was he
fiiTourable to the promotion of the younger. Mahdi Khw&ja
was son-in-law of the late Emperor, and was a generous and
liberal young man. He was very friendly with Mir Khali&,
who had promised to raise him to the throne. This fact became
generally known, and several of the nobles took part with Mahdi
Khw&ja. He also fell in with the idea, and began to assume
kingly airs.
It happened that one day Mir Khalifa went to see Mahdi
Khw&ja, who was in his pavilion. Mir Khalifa and Muhammad
Mukim, the &ther of the author, were the only persons present
with the KhwlEya. When the Mir had sat for a moment, his
late Majesty, in the pangs of his disease, sent for him. Afiier he
had gone, Mahdi Khw&ja continued standing in the pavilion, and
the author's &ther remained standing with due respect behind
him. The Mahdi was considered to be a man of suspicious
■ Hia full name was " Naslni-d din Muhammad Ham6 j&n," bat he u oommonly
called ''Jmmat Athydni."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
188 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
temperament, and being unaware of my £Gi.tlier's presence, when
Mir Ehali& had gone, he stroked his beard, and said to himselC
*^ Please God, I will flay thee ! " As soon as he had said this,
he perceived my father, and being greatly moved he took him
by the ear, and said, ^^0 T&jik, the red tongue uses its sharp-
point to no purpose." My father took leave and departed. He
went with all haste to Mir Ehalifa, and said, ^* Notwithstanding
the existence of such intelligent princes as Muhammad Uum&-
yun Mirz4 and his brothers, you have shut your eyes against
loyalty, and desire to transfer the sovereignty to another house ;
the end of all this will be this."" He then told him what Mahdi
Khw&ja had said. Mir Khalifa instantly sent off to fetch Prince
Hum£yun, and he sent an officer to Mahdi Kbw&ja with an
order in His Majesty's name, directing him to retire to his house.
The officers hastened to the Ehwaja, who was just about to sit
down to dinner, and without any ceremony sent him off to his
house. Mir Khalifa then issued a proclamation that no one was
to visit or hold communication with Mahdi Khw&ja, and that he
was not to attend the darhdr.
On the death of the Emperor Bfibar, Prince Hum&ydn, who
arrived from Sambal, ascended the throne at Agra, with the sup-
port of Amir Niz&mu-d din ''All Khalifii, on the 9th Jum&da-l
awwal, 937 H.^ (29th January, 1530). The date of his acces-
sion is found in the words Khairu-l muluk. The officers ex-
pressed their devotion^ and the chiefs and nobles were treated
with great kindness. The mansaba and offices which were held
under the late sovereign were confirmed, and the royal favour
made every one happy and content. On the same day Mirz&
Hind&l arrived from Badakhsh&n, and was received with great
kindness. He was gratified with the grant of two of the treasures
(do khazdnd) of former kings, and as the gold was divided by
coffers {kiihti)^ the date was found in the words Mahti-zar? The
^ He was bora on the 4th Zi-l ka*da, 916 h. (6ih February, nn).^AJAar-ndmm^
Tol. i., p. 149.
s Bad&fini notioes thu, and says that coffen fall of gold were diatiibnted aa gifU on
the day of ascending the throne. Vol. i., p. 344.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT.I AKBAKt. 189
territories were then divided. Mirzd Hind&I received the district
of Mew&t^ in jdgir. The Panj&b, E&bul, and Eandah&r were
settled as the jdgir of Mirzd K&mr&n. Sambal was given to
Hirz& ^Askarf.' Every one of the amirs also received an increase
of Ym jdgir.
After arranging the affairs of the State, His Majesty pro-^
ceeded to K&linjar, the Rdjd of which place expressed his fealty,
and ranged himself among the supporters of the throne.' In
those days Snlt&n Mahmud, son of Saltan Sikandar Lodi, with
the assistance of Baban B&yazid, and the Afgh&n nobles, had
raised the standard of opposition, and had taken possession of
Jannpur and its dependencies. Hum&ydn now marched to
subdue him, and having achieved successes, he returned vie*
torious to Agra.^ There he held a great festival, and all the
nobles and chiefs were honoured with robes and Arab horses. It
is ssud that 12,000 persons received robes at that feast, and
2000 of them were presented with outer garments of gold brocade
with gilt buttons.
At this time Muhammad Zam&n Mirz&, son of Badi'u-z Zam&n
Mirz&y son of Sult&n Husain Mirzd Babakrd, who had originally
eome from Balkh to seek a refuge with his late Majesty, now set
himself up in opposition, but he was taken prisoner, and was
sent as a warning for rebels to the fort of Bay&na, and in the
custody of Y&dgir Taghai. An order was given to deprive him
of sight, but the servants of Yadg&r Beg saved the pupils of his
eyes from the effects of the operation. After a short time he
made his escape, and fled to Sult&n Bah&dur of Qujar&t. About
the same time Muhammad Sult&n Mirzd, with his two sons
Ulngh Mirz& and Sh&h Mirz&, went off to Kanauj, and there
raised a rebellion. His Majesty sent a person with letters
1 Ab&-1 Fail aays *' Alwar," which amoants to much the same thing.
^ "and BadaUuh&n to Mirz& Snlaim&n/' — Akbar-ndma^ vol. i., p. 151.
* According to Bad&finl, he conquered {musakhkhar) K&linjar. Vol. i., p. 344.
See Eitraet from the Akbar^ndma, infra,
* " Learing Siilt4n Janaid Birl&s as goTemor of Jaunptir.'* — JMar-ndtna, toL i.,
p. 162.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
190 KIZAMU-D DrN JUBEMAD.
to Snlt&n Bah&dur of Gajarfit, demanding the surrender of
Muhammad Zam&n Mirz&, to which he returned a haughty
re&sal^ and then showed signs of rebellion and resistance.
This excited the anger of the Emperor, and he resolved to
march against Gujar&t and chastise Sult&n Bah&dur. . He pro-
ceeded to Gwalior, and there passed two months in making
excursions and hunting.
At this time Sult&n Bah&dur had marched with the forces of
Gujar&t and M&Iwa to besiege the fort of Chitor, and was
carrying on war against R&D& S&nk&. He had sent T&t&r
Eh&n Lodi, one of his chief nobles and a very brave officer, to
effect the conquest of the fort of Bay&na and the dependent
territory. Having reduced the fortress, he threatened ^gra,
whereupon the Emperor sent Prince Hind&I against him. On
learning the approach of the Prince, the greater part of T4tar
Eh&n's forces deserted him and dispersed. With 300 men who
remained he advanced against the Prince, and made a fierce
onslaught upon the Prince's own division, in which he and every
one of his followers perished. Bay ana and its dependencies
then reverted to the possession of the Emperor. When Sult&n
Bah&dur heard of this, he was greatly alarmed and confounded.
The Emperor being determined to chastise still further his
enemy, he marched from Agra,^ and at the same period SuU&n
Bah&dur laid siege a second time to Chltor. [ Victory of Prince
Kdmrdn at KandahdrJ]
When Sult&n Bah&dur was informed of the march of the
Emperor, he held a council of war. Many of the officers advised
the raising of the siege, but Sadr £h&n, who was the chief of
his nobles, observed that they were warring against infidels, and
that if a sovereign of Musulm&ns were to attack them while so
engaged^ he would in effect assist the infidels, and this would
remain a reproach against him among Musulm&ns until the Day
of Judgment. He therefore advised the continuance of the
siege, and would not believe that the Emperor would attack
1 At the beginning of Jttm&da-l awwal, 941 K.—Akbar-ndma, toL !., p. 169.
Digitizecfby VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBABr. 191
iheni. When the Emperor had passed through M&lwa, and had
oome to S&rangpur, he was informed of this ; so he rested there.
Snlt&n Bah&dur carried on the siege of Ghitor at his ease, and
finallj took it by storm, and secured an immense booty. In
celebration of the victory, he gave a great feast, and divided
the spoil among his soldiers. Then he turned his front towards
the Imperial army.
When the Emperor heard this, he marched forward, and the
two armies faced each other at Mandisor,^ one of the depen-
dencies of M&Iwa. The tents were hardly pitched, when Saiyid
^Ali Kh&n and Khurds&n Kh&n, who commanded Sult&n Baha-
dur's advanced guard, were defeated by the royal forces, and fell
back upon their main body. The army of Gujar&t was greatly
dispirited, and the Sult&n called a council of war. Sadr Kh&n
advised giving battle on the morrow, as the troops were elated
by the conquest of Chitor, and their eyes had not yet been
seared by the sight of the Mughals. Rumi Khan,^ who com-
manded the artillery, was adverse to a pitched battle, because
the guns (top) and rockets [tnfang) were of little use (in the
field). They were very strong in artillery, and except the
Emperor of Bum, no other potentate could equal them. He
therefore counselled the entrenching' of the army and the carry-
ing on of wariare daily. If the Mughals advanced, they might be
met with a discharge of the guns and rockets and a large number
of them would be killed. Sult&n Bah&dur acquiesced in this view,
and ordered an entrenchment to be formed round his camp.
For two months the two armies remain^ confronting each
other. Frequently during the day brave men desirous of fame
sallied out in search of adventures; but the Mughal soldiers
seldom ventured within range of the guns and rockets. Then
the Emperor posted his troops around the position of the enemy,
1 On the l>an1u of a larg^ tank. — Ahbar-ndma, toI. i. p. 160.
* A Turk of Constantinople : bat the title was sometimes g^yen to artillerymen
vho were not Eoropean Turks.
> Ah6-1 Fazl says, '* a barricade of carriages (Aix/r-t ar&ba) with a ditch outside."
—AkUr-ndma, yoI. i, p. 161.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
192 mzKyiU'D dh? a&mad.
to cat off his supplies of grain and fodder and fueL These dis-
positions caused a famine to ensue in the enemy^s camp. Grain
was not to be procured, the grass all around was consumed, and
the imperfectly armed Gujar&tis, through fear of the arrows,
dared not yenture far from the camp. The horses and animals
and many men perished from want, and the army was dis-
mounted. When Sult&n Bah&dur perceived that if he remained
longer he would be taken prisoner, he went off by the rear of
his pavilion and fled towards Mandd with five of his most
trusty adherents, one of whom was governor of Burh&npiir, and
the other was E4dir Sh&h, governor of M41wa.^ When his
men heard of his escape, they took to flight. The date of this
event is found in the words Zill Bahddur.
On the Emperor being informed of the flight of his enemy,
he mounted and went off in pursuit. Having come up with
Sadr Eh&n, who was retreating with a body of men towards
Mandu, he made an attack upon him, thinking that it was Sult&n
Bah&dur himself. He had not with him more than 3000 men,
for the rest were engaged in plundering. Many of the Gujar&tis
were slain. His Majesty hastened on to Mandu, and Sult&n
Bah&dur was besieged in the fort. The siege was carried on
for some days, till one night a party of the royal army scaled
the walls and got into the fort. Sult&n Bah&dur was asleep
when the alarm was raised. A general panic followed, and the
Gujar&tis took to flight. Sult&n Bah&dur made off with five or
six horsemen towards Gujar&t, and Sadr Kh&n and Sult&n *Xlam
(Lodi) threw themselves into the fort of Sungar, which is the
citadel of Mandd. Next day they came out, and were conducted
to the presence of the Emperor. They were both wounded.
Sadr Kh&n was placed in confinement,' and an order was given
for cutting off the foot of Sult&n 'Alam.
^ See infrd Extract from Akbar-ndma,
* Such is the statement of one MS., not of the other. Abti-1 Fail says, on the
contrary, he was received with great kindnees. Snlt&n 'Alam had rebelled and
deserted, so his foot was cut off and he was set at liberty. The fort was not sur-
rendered without much negociation and strong assurances of personal safety. — Akkar^
ndmOf Tol. i., p. 164.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBABT. 193
Three days after, the Emperor left the fort and marched on
towards Gujar&t. Sult&n Bah&dur had mach treasure and manj
jewels in the fort of Ch&mpanir,^ and these he carried off with
him to Ahmadab&d. When the Emperor left Gh&mpanir and
marched towards Ahmad&b&d, Salt&n Bah&dar again took
flight, and proceeded towards Eamb&yat (Eambay). The city
of Ahmad4bad fell into the hands of the Moghals, and being
plandered yielded enormous spoil. The Emperor again started
off with all speed in pursuit of Snlt&n fiah&dur. When
the latter reached Eambay, he hastily exchanged his tired
horses for fresh ones^ and hurried off to the port of (Diu).'
The Emperor reached Eambay on the evening of the day in
which the fugitive had quitted it.' Next day, a person^ came
forward in a friendly way and gave information that the in-
habitants of the neighbourhood were that night going to make
a nocturnal attack upon the pursuers. The Emperor questioned
him as to his motive for giving this information. He replied,
that his son was a prisoner in the hands of the victors, and he
was in hopes, if the Emperor was successful, that he might
obtain freedom for him. The Emperor passed the night in the
greatest watchfulness, and when it was near dawn, 5000 or
6000 footmen^ made an attack upon the royal forces. The
men were on the alert, and came out of their tents and as-
sembled outside the camp. What was left in the camp was
plundered. When the morning dawned, the Mughals fell upon
the Gujar&tis on all sides, and put many of them to the
sword.*
J&m Firoz, formerly ruler of Tatta, having been defeated by
1 He aei fire to the town before leaTing Ch&mpanlr.— ^A^dar-fMfma, toL L, p. 164.
* HaTi'ng preTionsly burnt a bnndred war gkrdU. — lb, 164.
a « and encamped on the shore of the sea."~J6. 16^.
^ An old woman, acoordiog to Ab6-1 FazL — lb, 166.
f «" Bhils and Oow&n."— /6. 167.
' This attack was made by Malik Ahmad L6d and Rnkn D&6d, two of 8h&h
Bahftdui^s nobles, who had great inflnence among the Eulis and Gow6n of Koliwfrra.
Snraged at this attack, Hum&yi^n ordered Kambajr to be plundered and fired.—
i}.l66.
vox.. T. II
Digitized by VjOOQIC
194 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
the Arghdns, had fled to Gujar&t.^ He had giren his daughter
to Sult&n Bah&dur. When the latter was defeated, the J4m fell
a prisoner into the hands of the Emperor. On the night of thi«
attack, his guards, fearing he might escape, put him to death.
Sadr Kh&n Gnjar&tf, who had surrendered himself at the fort
of Stingar, was also put to death on this night.
Next day the Emperor marched towards Gh&mpanir, and
invested the fort. Ikhtiy&r Kh&n, the commandant of the fort,
made preparations for resistance. One day the Emperor was
going round the fort^ when he spied a number of people who had
come out of the jungle, and who, being frightened at the sight
of him, fell back into the cover. He sent a party in pursuit, and
captured several of them. It then appeared that, with the help
of the (neighbouring) zaminddrs^ they had conveyed grain and
butter into the fort. In this place (where they had introduced
the provisions) the fort was very high,^ perpendicular, and
dangerous. But His Majesty conceived that where provisions
had been passed, he also might find an entrance. He carefully
examined the place, and then returned to the camp.
It then occurred to him that the strength of this part of the
fort was such, that the garrison probably felt quite secure about
it, and took little care to guard it. He had a number of steel
spikes prepared. In the day he attacked the fort on all sides,
and at night he repaired with 600 men to this place. They
drove the spikes right and left firmly into (the scarp of the
rock), and by means of them climbed up into the fort. The
garrison, being quite at ease about this part of the fort, did not
observe their entrance. When thirty-nine persons, the last of
whom was Bair&m Khdn, had gone up, His Majesty also reso-
lutely ascended.^ By daybreak 800 men had got in. There
^ See Vol. I. of this work, pp. 234, 309, 313.
* " Sixty or seyenty gaz in height." — Akbar'tidma, toI. i., p. 168.
' The Akbar'tidma (vol. i., p. 168) says that when thirty-nine had gone op,
Hum&yto wanted to proceed, hut Bair&m £h&n persuaded him to wait tiU the
whole ascent was clear. Bair&m Eh6n then went up, and Hum&y6n foUowed^ being
the forty-first man.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AXBAfir. 195
thflj found great slores of corn and batter, and other proTisions,
fcr the people of the fort. As soon as it was light, the besieging
annjr advanced against the fort. The Emperor and his party then
came down, diouting their battle-ciy. On reaching the gate
they opened it, and gave admission to the assailants. So this
strong fortress ma taken. Ikhtiy&r Kh&n retreated into the
eitadd, which is called Muliya. Great nambers of the garrison
were slain, and many of their wives and children cast themselves
down from the walls of the fort and were killed.
Ikhtiy&r £h&n then came out of the citadel and surrendered.
He held a high position among the Gujaratis, and was kindly
received by the Emperor, who made him one of his personal
attendants.^ The treasures of the £ings of Gujar&t, which had
been accumulating for many years, fell into the hands of the
eonqnerors. The gold was divided among the soldiers, so much
a head. The goods and stuffs of Btim and Europe and China,
and of eveiy part of the world, which the Kings of Gujar&t had
treasured, all fell a prey to the victors. So vast was the amount
of gold and effects that came into the possession of the soldiers,
that no person attempted to collect revenue that year in Gujar&t.
The agriculturists of the country sent a person with a message
to Sult&n Bah&dur, to inform him that as several of the districts
were not occupied by the Mughal agents, they would themselves
make the proper collections, if he would send an army to protect
them. Accordingly, Sult&n Bah&dur sent one of his slaves,
'Im&du-l Mulk,^ who was distinguished for courage and justice.
*Im4du-l Mulk set about collecting forces, and by the time he
reached Ahmad&b&d many soldiers of the army and of the
Mominddrs had gathered round him, to the number of about
50.000 horse and foot.' He encamped within sight of Ahmad-
^ Ikhtijftr Khftn was a deBcencUmt of the kdsis of the town of Naryfid, and was a
nuai of great knowledge and experience. He had a high reputation ai a statesman,
and was an acoompllBhed geometrician and astronomer. He was of some repute also as
a yoet—AJkbar-ndma^ toI. L, p. 167. Enkine, toI. iL, p. 66. > A Circassian.
> If uj&hid IQi&n of Jonagarh joined him with 12,000 hQtta.^AJkbor-mdm^ ? oL i.,
p. 169.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
196 KIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
&b&d, and began to collect the revenue. When information of this
was brought to the Emperor after the &11 of Gh&mpanir, he
made a second large distribution of gold out of the plunder of
Gujar&t among the soldiers. He ihen placed the fort of Gh&m-
panir in charge of Tardi Beg, and marched towards Ahmad&b&d.
The command of the vanguard was given to Mirz& 'Askari,
Mirzd Y&dg&r N&sir, and Mir Hindu Beg, and they went on
one day's march in advance. In the vicinity of Mahmdd-
4b&d,^ which is twelve kos from Ahmad&bad, 'Imadu-l Mulk
attacked Mirzd 'Askari, and was defeated. Many men fell on
both sides.
The author of this work heard from his father, who was then
toazir of Mirzd 'AskaH, that at mid-day, when it was intensely
hot, the Gujar&tis came hastily out of Ahmad&b&d. Mirz&
Y&dg&r N&sir had marched about half a kou on the right flank
of Mirza Askari, and Mirzd Hindu Beg had encamped at the
same distance on his left. The Gujar&tis came on with such
speed that the Mirz& had no time to array his forces, so he
retired with a party of his men into a thorn brake, where he
stood &8t. Heedless of this disposition of the Mirz&'s, the
GujarlEltis dispersed in search of plunder, and gathered a laige
booty. Mirz& Y&dg&r N^sir and Mirz& Hindu Beg came up
in due order with their forces, and the Gujar&t(s took to flight.
Mirzd 'Askari now came forth from the thorn brake, and pursued
the Gujar&tis to Ahmad4b&d. More than 2000 men were killed
in the battle.
After this the Emperor bestowed Ahmad&b&d and its depen-
dencies upon Mirzd 'Askari in jdgir^ Nahrw&la Patau upon
Mirz& Y&dg&r N&sir, and Broach upon Mirzd Hindu Beg.'
Tardi Beg received Oh&rapanir, and K&sim Husain obtained
Baroda. Eh&n-jah&n Shir&zi and other nobles also received
1 '< Between Nary&d and Malimdd&bfid.'*— ^Jt^ar-m/ma, toL i., p. 171.
' None but Min& 'Askarl's men were allowed to enter the citj. — Ih. 173.
> A large force waa left under the command of Hindd Beg« with which he waa to
render aamatanoe wheierer it waa required. K&aim Hnaain recaiTed Broach. —
Ih, 172.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARF. 197
grants.^ The Emperor proceeded after these successes to Bur-
h&nptir, and from thence to Mandu.
After a time one of the nobles of Salt&n Bah&dar prepared a
fortified position in the neighbourhood of Naus&ri, which is near
to Snrat, and proceeded to collect forces. He took possession of
Naus&ri, and having associated B£ml Eh&n' of Surat with
Ehin-jah&n Shir&zi, thej marched against Broach.' E&sim
Hasain, being unable to withstand them^ fled to Ohintpanir.
The Oujar&tis then rose and carried on offensive movements
on every side.
One night Mirzd ^Askari in a convivial party took too much
wine, and givii^ license ta his tongue, exclaimed, ^' I am a King,
and the shadow of God." Ghazanfar, who was one of his com-
panions, and foster-brother of E&eim Eh&n, said in an under-
tone, "So thou art ; but not for thyself.'* The convives smiled,
and the Mirzd having found out what they were laughing about,
got angry, and threw Ghazan&r into prison. In a few days he
made his escape,* and went and joined Sult&n Bah&dur, whom
he incited to attack Ahroad&b&d, assoriug him that he was
acquainted with all the plans of the Mughals, who were anxious
to retreat, and only wanted a pretext for so doing. He advised
him to make the Mirz& prisoner, and march against the Mughals ;
and he expressed his willingness to submit to punishment if they
made any real resistance. Salt&n Bah&dur, with the assistance
of the znminddrs of Surath,^ got together a force and marched
agsunst Ahmad&b&d.
Just at this period Amir Hindd Beg had counselled Mirzd
' See infra Extract from the AJIibar-ndma, '* Betam of Hnm&ytUi."
' This was the common title given to Osmanli Tnrks, who were in high* repute as
engineers and gonners, but it was not confined exclusively to them. This R^mi
Kh&n is not the same as the Btfml Eh&n Kbud&wand Kh&n who left Sult&n Bah&dur
after his defeat at Maadd, and directed the siege of Chnn&r for Humftjtfn. — See
«M p. 199.
' See Extract from Akbar*ndma,
* With 300 Yion^.—Akbar'-ndmaj vol. i, p. 174.
* Sdrath is one of the divisions of Eattiw&r, and must not be confounded with the
town of Surat) though the names are no doubt identical.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
198 KIZiCVir-D BIN AHMAD.
^Aakari to have the khutba re<nted and coin struck in his naine,
and to set up his claim to independence, expecting that the
troops in hopes (of reward) would devote themselves to his
service. Mirzi ^Aflkarf did not accept this advice. After much
debate and deliberation, it was determined that Mirz& ^Askari,
Mirz& Y&dg4r M&sir, Amir Hindu Beg and some other nobles
should leave Ahmad&b&d, and form a camp in the rear of As&wal,^
opposite Sarganj. Sult&n Bah&dur also came down to Sarganj
and fiiced his enemies. By chance a cannon ball from the camp
of the Mirzd knocked down the tent of Sultan Bah&dur. This
greatly disturbed him, and he summoned Ghazanfar to his pre-
sence, intending to bring him to punishment. Ghazanfar asked
that his punishment might be postponed until the Sult&n had
set his army in array, for he had heard that Mirz& 'Askari in-
tended to retreat during the night. When night came Mirz&
'Askari, with the approval of the amirs, retreated towards
Cb&mpanir, leaving everything superfluous behind them.' They
halted at ten kos distance^ and Sult&n Bah&dur pursued and
came up with them* Mirzd Askari «nd the amira mounted and
made a show of fighting, and then retired.
When they reached C3i4mpanir, Tardi Beg^ exhibited hostility
towards them, and shutting himself up in the fort, sent a mes-
senger to Huro&yun, to inform him that Mirz& ^Askari had
hostile intentions, and was about to march upon i(gra and pro-
claim himself King. But before Mirzd ^Askari retreated from
Ahmad&b&d, the newswriters and reporters had communicated
to the Emperor the proposition which Mir Hindu Beg had made
to the Mirz4 for his assuming the crown, and although he had
not assented thereto, they reported that he entertained hostile
designs. The Emperor set off with all speed from Mandu to
Agra, and was met upon the road' by Mirz& 'Askari, who waited
upon him, and told him the facts of the matter. Sult&n Bah&dur
^ A suburb of Ahmad&b&d.
' See Extracts from the AlchavnimM^ infrd,
^ **Near Ghitor."— ^JfcAar>fiitoui, toI. L, p. 176.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKATJ AKBA&f. 199
obtaioed possession of the fort of Ch&mpanir by the eapitalation
of Tardi Beg.
At the beginniog of this year, Sh&h Tahmdsp, in revenge of
Sain Mirz&y marched to Kandah&r, and Kaldn Beg evacuated the
fort and proceeded to Lahore. It is said that Kal&n Beg had
built for himself a Chinese house of great elegance^ and when
be fled it was furnished with fine carpets and beautiful vases.
This greatly pleased the Sh4h. Leaving Kandah&r in charge
of his nobles, the Sh&h proceeded to ^Ir&k. After this, Mirzi
K&mr&n matched from Lahore against Kandah&r, and the Turko-
mans, being nnable to resist him, evacuated the place and went
to ^Irak. Kandah4r thus once more fell into his hands.
The Emperor Huni&yun remained for a year at Agra and
took his pleasure. When Sult&n Bah&dur was defeated, he sent
away Muhammad Zam&n Mirz& to Hind, in order that there
might be no di£E[cuIty about him, and when Mirz4 E&mr&n
marched against Kandah&r, Zam4n Mirzd laid siege to Lahore,
but upon hearing of the Emperor's return^ he went back again
to Gujar4t.^
Sher "Kh&a Afgh&n, who had got possession of the provinces
of Bih4r and Jaunpiir and the fort of Chun&r, greatly increased
his power and forces while the Emperor was engaged in Gujardt
and M&lwa. To curb his proceedings, the Emperor marched
against him on the 14th Saiar, 942 h. (12th August, 1535).
When he pitched his tents before the fort of Ghun&r,' Bum I
Kh4n, who had quitted the service of Sult&n Bahadur,' and
bad been received into that of the Emperor, undertook the reduc-
tion of the fortress. He received full authority to do whatever
he deemed necessary for the capture of the place, and every
' Aeeording to Abtf-1 Fazl he went to 8iDd, but waa stopped and tnriied aside hj
Sli&h Hnsain, son of Sh&h Beg Argh&n. He tben went and invested Lahore during
K&nr&n's absence, but fled as soon as K&mr&n returned, and haying no other resource
he went back again to Gujar&t
' Which was under the oommand of Kutb Eh&n, son of Sher Sh&h.
* After the defeat of Sult&n Bah&dur at Uaadti, ^Akbar^ndma, vol. i., p. 183.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
200 NIZAMU-D DtN AHMAD.
assistance was to be given to him. Biimi Kh&n reconnoitered
the fortress, and found that every part of the place iwhich abutted
on the land was exceedingly strong and quite impregnable. He
therefore turned his attention to the river, and prepared a laige
vessel on which he began to build a scaffold.^ When the structure
was finished, he found that the vessel would not carry it, so he
had two other vessels lashed one on each side of it. Still they
were insufficient to convey the scaffold. The help of another
vessel was obtained, and the scaffold being now movable, it was
brought close up to the fort, and the place was captured.* When
the officers of the garrison saw that the place was no longer
tenable, they made their escape at night in boats. Bumi Eh&n
received many rewards.' The gunners of the fort were maimed
by His Majesty's orders.^ At this time, Sher Kh&n Afgh&n was
carrying on war against the ruler of Bengdl,* who fled wounded
before him, and sought refuge with the Emperor Hum&yiin.
The Emperor then marched against Bengdl. Sher Kh4n then
sent his sons ^ Jal&l Kh&n and Khaw&s Kh&n to secure Ghurhi,
which was situated on the road to Beng&l. This Garhi is a
strong place.'' On one side of it there is a high mountain and
a large jungle quite insurmountable, and the river Gkmges runs
near to the other side. The place stands between Bih&r and
1 (^^y^ JjIL«. Abd-l Fazl calls the stmctiire a idbdL-^Akbar-ndma, toL i,
p. 183.
* He was appointed goyernor of the fortress, but died a few days afterwards,
poisoned, as Abfi-1 Fazl says, out of envy at his promotion. Beg Mfrak snooeeded
him as goyemor of Chnnlir. — jUbar-ndma, toI. !., p. 184.
* Ahti-l Fazl says that 2000 men surrendered and received quarter from Hnmfcytfa,
but that Mnyid Beg, one of his attendants, caused their hands to be cut off, aTerring
that it was by the £mperor*s order, although he had really directed kind treatment.
Our MSS. have the words ba'hukm, " by order," but perhaps, as Erskine snggesta, it
should be be^huhn^ without the order. — Akbar-ndma^ toI. i., p. 183.
* Saiyid Mahm^d Sh&h. Abii-l Fazl calls him Nasfb Sh&b, but he was dead.—
See Vol. IV.. p. 366.
* So in the original, but Ehawiis EhCm was not Sher Eh&n*s squ.
7 *<The gate of BengU."— ^^tor-fidmff. It is the Teria garhi or TiliagoUej of
the maps.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABASAT-I AKBABr. 201
Bengfil. The Emperor sent Jah&ngtr Beg Mughal against
Garhi.
Hind&l Mirz& accompanied the Emperor to Mongir, and after-
wards he was sent towards i^gra against Muhammad Sult&n
Mirz&, XJlugh Mirz&, and Sh&h Mirz&, who had fled from
His Majesty, and were creating disturbances in the' country.
Muhammad Zam&n Mirzd, when he found that he met with no
sneers in Gujar&t, sent ambassadors to the Emperor at Agra,
suing for pardon.^
When Jah&ngir Beg arrived at Ghirhi, Jal&l Eh&n,' son of
Sher S[h&n, and Khaw&s Eh&n marched forth and defeated
Jah4ngir Beg as he was descending (the defiles). Jah&ngir Beg
was wounded, and returned to join the Emperor, who marched
in person to the gates of Garhi. Unable to make further re-
sistance, Jal&l Eh&n and Ehaw&s Eh&n fled. The Emperor
then left Garhi, and continued his march into Beng&l. Sher
Eh&n was unable to resist him, so he went off by way of
Jh£rkand' to Boht&s. The Emperor remained three months
in Beng&l,^ and changed the name of the city of Gaur to
Jannat&b&d.
In the year 943 (1636 a.d.), Mirzd Hind&I, finding oppor-
tunity at i^gra,^ was induced by turbulent advisers to set
himself up in opposition to the Emperor.^ He killed Shaikh
^ This outbreak, aooording to Abti-1 Fazl, occorred before the inarch to Chun&r,
and Mahammad Zam&n joined the Emperor while on his march thither. — Akbar*
ndmOf ToL L, pb 176.
' AU three M S8. had « Jal&l Kh&n," bat in two of them ** Kutb Eh&n " has been
•abstitated. Bee Vol. lY., p. 367.
* The Akbar^dma caUs it <' Chah&rkand." It was at this time that Sher Eh&n
got poaseaaion of Boht&s (see tu^d, Vol. lY^ p. 361). According to Abd-1 Fazl,
** B&J& Chint&man brahman was master {hdkim) of the fortress." He accredits the
dolt Btory, and aaya that 600 dolis went in with two men in eaoh.—^A^ffr-ndmo,
Tol. L, p. 186.
* The Akbar-ndma (toL I, p. 186) aaya Hnm&yikn liked the climate of Bengal,
aad rested there in pleasure and dissipation, regardlees of his army.
* Aceording to the Akbar^ndma (toI. i., p. 186), he had gone there without leaye.
* His supporters aaid, ** If you will cause the khutba to be read in your name, we
wiU faithftiUy aerre and support you ; if not, we will go to Miiz& S&mr6n, where we
shall have our wishes gratified."— .^iW-ftdma, toI. i., p. 187.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
202 KIZiCUU-D BtN AHMAD.
Bahlol,^ one of the great Shaikhs of the time, and learned in
theology, to vrhom the Emperor was much attached. He was
executed upon the pretence of his being in league with the
Afgh&ns, but in reality it was brought about bj the leaders of
the revolt in order to widen the breach between Mirzi Hind&l
and the Emperor. The khutba was now read in the name of
Hinddl. When the Emperor heard of this defection, he left
Jah&ngir Beg in charge of Beng&l, with a reinforcement of
6000 chosen men, and set off for ^gra.
At this time Muhammad Zam&n Mirz&, son of Badl'a-z
Zam&n Mirzi, returned from Gujar&t with great contrition, and
waited upon the Emperor, who forgave him, and did not utter
a word of reproach. Long marches and the unwholesome climate
of Beng&l destroyed the horses of the soldiers, and the Emperor''a
army arrived quite destitute of provisions at Ghaunsd. The
amirB who had been left in Jaunpur and Ghun&r came to wait
upon the Emperor. Sher Eh&n, having got intelligence of the
distress of the army, came and placed himself in front of the
Emperor, and the armies remained canfronting each other three
months.
When Mirz& £&mr&n returned to Lahore from Eandah&r, and
heard of the rebellion of Mirz& Hind41, of the difficulties of the
Emperor, and of the growing strength of Sher Kh&n, he formed
the design of securing Agra. Mirz& Hind&l proceeded to Dehli,
and there Fakhr ^Ali and Mirza T£dg&r N&sir^ shut themselves
up in the fortress, and in spite of all his efforts, Hind&l was
unable to take the city. So when Mirzi E&mr&n came near
to Dehli, Mirzi Hind&l felt himself constrained to join him.'
1 Ab(i-1 Fail calls him " Shaikh Fhdl/' and says he had been tent by Ham&y^n
express from fieng&l to use his inflaeooe in inducing Hindfil to deaiafc from hia i^wl*
lions designs. — Akbar»ndma, toI. i., p. 188.
* On hearing of Hindal's proceedings, Mirz& Y6dg6r Kftsir had left EftlpS and
hastened by way of Gwalior to DehlS, and prepared the eity for a siege.— uUfciar-
Mfrno, Tol. i., p. 189.
^ The Akbar-ndfMt (toL i., p. 190) states, what is more likely, that on E&mrfm's
reaching Sonpat, Hind&l hastened back to Agra, from whenoe, on K&inr4n*B ap.
proaeh, he retired to Alwar.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKrr-I AKBABI. 203
Fakhr ^Ali came out on the top of tlie fortress, and seeing
Mirz4 K&mr&n, he told him that Mirzi Y&dg&r N&sir would
not surrender Dehli, so the best thing he oould do would be to go
on to i^ra, and if he obtained possession of that city, Dehli would
be given up to him. Mirz& K&mr&n consequently marched on
towards i^gra, and when he approached that city, Mirzd Hind&l
separated from him, and went away in the direction of Alwar.
The news of Mirz& Hind&l^s rebellion, and of the arrival
of Mirz& E&mr&n at Dehli, was brought to the Emperor at
ChaunsA, and greatly increased his distress. Sher Khan now
sent to the Emperor a darwesh named Shaikh Jalil, whom he
called his murihidj to propose terms of peace. He offered to
give np all the territory except Beng&l, to swear upon the
Holy Book that he would live in peace, and that the coin should
be struck and the khutha read in the name of the Emperor.
These proposals were received with the greatest satisfaction.
But next morning Sher Eh&n fell upon the royal army un-
awares, and put it to the rout before it oould be drawn up in
array.^ Prior to the attack, the Afgh&ns had taken possession
of the bridge and had broken it. They also came out on the
river in boats, and despatched with their spears every man of
the royal army whom they found endeavouring to escape by
water. Muhammad Zam&n Mirzd was drowned. His Majesty
rode his horse into the water, and nearly perished ; but he was
helped over the river by a water-carrier, and went off towards
Mirz& E&mr&n had ere this arrived at Agra. Mirz4 Hindal
was at Alwar in security. After the Emperor had crossed the
river, he hastened on, accompanied by only a few horsemen,* of
whom the author's father was one, and arrived at Agra. Mirz&
1 As Hmn&j^n was mounting, he ordered B&b& Jal&ir and Tardi Beg Knch Beg to
look to the safetj of the Empress Hfiiji Begam. They died fighting at the door of
her tent. Mir Pahlaw&n Badakhshi and a number of others fell in the Tain attempt
to saye her, and she fell a prisoner into the hands of the Afgh&ns. — Akbar^ndmay
YoL i^ p. 193. See Vol. IV. of this work, p. 875.
> Min& 'Askari also was with \am.'-Akbttr'ndma, vol. i., p. 194.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
204 KIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
K&mr&n had receired do intelligence before the Emperor arrired*
The latter repaired at once to the pavilion of his brother, and on
seeing each other, the eyes of the brothers filled with tears.
Hind&I Mirzd received forgiveness for his offences, and then
came and waited upon the Emperor. Muhammad S«lt&n Mirz&
and his sons, who had for a long time been engaged in rebellion,
also came in and joined them. Consultations were held. Mirza
K&mr&n was desirous of returning to Lahore, and showed
unbounded expectations. The Emperor assented to all his ex-
traordinary propositions. Khw&ja Kal&n Beg exerted himself
to bring about the return of Mirzd E&mr&n. The negoeiations
went on for six months. Meanwhile Mirz& £&mr&n had been
attacked with severe sickness, and some designing persons had
instilled into his mind the belief that his illness was the result of
poison administered to him by the Emperor's directions. So, ill
as he was, he started for Lahore, having sent on Khwaja Kal&n
Beg in advance. He had promised to leave a considerable por-
tion of his army to assist his brother at Agra ; but in spite of
this promise he carried all off with him, excepting only 2000
men whom he left at Agra under the command of ^kandar.
Mirz& Haidar Doghlat Kashmiri,^ who had accompanied K&m-
r&n, remained with His Majesty, and was received into favour.
K&mr&n also took away with him many of the soldiers of Agra.
Sher Eh&n, emboldened by the dissensions between the brothers,
advanced along the banks of the Ganges, and sent a detachment
over the river against E&Ipi and Et&wah. E&sim Husain Sult&n
Uzbek, along with Y&dg&r N&sir Mirz& and Sikandar Sult&n,
fought against the Afgh&is in the neighbourhood of K&lpi.
They killed a son of Sher Kh&n who was in command, and
a great many men of his army, and they sent his head as an
offering to Agra. The Emperor then marched against Sher
Kh&n to the banks of the Ganges, and passed over the river at
Kanauj. For one month he remained encamped in sight of the
^ Mirz& Haidar was ayerted, by the Emperor's remonstrances, from going away
with E&mr&n. — Akhar^ndma^ yoL i., p. 197. See tuprd^ p. 130.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAXAT-I AKBABt. 205
enemy. His army nambered 100,000 horsemen, while that of
the Afgh&ns did not exceed 50,000. At this conjuncture,
Mohammad Sult&n Mirz& and his sons again exhibited their
perfidy, and without reason fled from the royal army. The
detachment which Mind K&mr&n had left as a reinforcement
also went off to Lahore. So disaffection having become the
fashion, many of the troops went off and scattered over various
parts of Hindust&n. The rainy season came on, and the place
where the army was encamped being flooded with water, it was
determined to move to higher ground. While this was being
done Sher Kh&n came forth to fight. The battle was fought
on the 10th Muharram of this year [947 H., 17th May, 1540
A.D.]. Many of the soldiers, being dispirited, fled without
fighting. A few only of the bravest went into the fight, and
the day being lost, the whole army fled. Hum&ydn became
separated from his horse in the Ganges, and was helped out of
the water by Shamsu-d din Muhammad Ghaznivi, who after-
wards, in the reign of Akbar, received the title of Kh&n-i a'^zam.
When Sher Khan heard of his escape, he was sorry, and ex-
claimed, ^' I was in hopes he had perished, but he has got off.'' ^
The Emperor fled to ^gra; and when i}^e enemy approached
that city^ he made no delay, but went to Lahore. At the
beginning of Babi'u-l awwal all the Chaghat&i Sult&ns and
amirs were assembled in Lahore; but Mirz& Muhammad Sult£n
and his sons, who had come to Lahore, fled from thence to
Hnlt&n. Mirzd Hiud&l and Mirz& Yddg&r N&sir found it ex-
pedient to go towards Bakar and Tatta,^ and Mirzd Kamr^n
determined to go to E&bul as soon as the party was broken up.
It was abundantly manifest to the Emperor that there was no
possibility of bringing his brothers and his amirs to any common
agreement, and he was very despondent. Mirzd Haidar Beg,
after much consultation,' had been sent off with a party who
> See suprd, pp. 132 and 148. ' One copy has " Nagarkot."
' His advice was that the princes should ocenpy and fortify the hills hotween
Sriuad and S&rang, while he suhdued Kashmir, which he felt certain of effecting in
^ conite of two months.— .^A^ar-fM^na, toI. i., p. 206.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
206 NIZJCMU-D Dnr AHMJlD.
had volunteered fbr service in Kashmir, and Khw&ja Kal&n Beg
was ordered to follow him. When the Mirz& had reached Nan-
shahr, and Kal&n Beg had got as far as Sf&lkot, intelligence
reached the Emperor that Sher Kh&n had crossed the river
[Biy&h] at Sult&npdr, and was onlj a few kos distant. HiB
Majesty then passed over the river of Lahore. Mirzd K&mraa,^
after proving faithless to the oaths and compacts which he had
made to help in whatever was decided upon, now thought it
expedi»it to retire with the Emperor to Bahra. When Ehw4ja
Eal&n Beg heard (of this retreat), he marched rapidly from
Si&lkot, and joined the camp of Hnm&yiin. When Mirz4
Haidar reached Kashmir, he found the people fighting against
each other. A party of them came and waited upon him, and
through them Kashmir fell into his hands, without striking a
stroke. On the 22nd Bajab he became sovereign of Kashmir,
in the city of Nau-shahr, as is related in the Tahakat-i Kaahmkr.
At Bahra, Mirz& K&mr4n and Mind ^Askari parted from
Hum&ydn, and went off, accompanied by Khw&ja Kal&n Beg, to
K&bul. Mirz& Hind&l and Mirzd Y£dg&r N&sir still remained
with him, but after a few stages they disagreed. For twenty
days they absented themselves, but falling into difficulties, on
the advice of Mir Abd-1 Bak&, they once more came back and
made their submission. On*the banks of the river Sind a &mine
arose in the camp, and boats to cross the river were not pro-
curable. Bakhshdi Lang&h then brought in several boats laden
with com, and was very favourably received.- The array then
crossed the river, and went onwards to Bakhar, but made a halt
at the town of Luhari (Lohri). Mirzd 'Askari then crossed the
Sind, and went to the town of P&tar, because the wants of an
army were easily supplied there. From Luhri, which is near
Bakhar,* to Pdtar, the distance is fifty kos, Mir T&hir Sadr
was sent as ambassador to Sh&h Husain Arghun, ruler of Tatta ;
^ Abti-l Fazl asserts that he sent an enyoy to Sher Khfcn, offering to support him,
on oonditlon of being confirmed in the goyemment of the PanjU).— ..^iiftar-«diiMi,
vol. i., -p. 206.
s Lohrl or Rori is on the east bank of the Indus opposite to Bakhar
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAXAT^ AXBABT. 207
ftnd Samandar Beg, one of the courtiers of the Emperor^ was
sent with him in charge of a horse and a robe. The gist of the
message which they eonveyed was, that the Emperor had been
eorapelled to come to Tatta, and his object was to attempt the
recoTery of Gujarit. The Sh&h was invited to come and wait
upon the Emperor, and consult with him about the conquest of
Oajar&t. Sh&h Husain Arghdn temporized for six months by
sending complimentary messages, and said that there could be
no good in staying near Bakhar, but if the tomp were nearer
Tatta it would be more convenient, for £ve or six months might
be lost while they were negociating. If the Emperor would
eome nearer, whatever seemed advisable should be done.^ Grain
becoming scarce in Bakhar, the Emperor marched off to P&tar,
where Mirza Hind&l was staying, for he had heard that Mirzk
Hind&l intended to go to Kandah4r. It was on one occasion
in this year, while the Emperor was staying in the camp of
Mirz& Hind&I, that he married Maryam-i Makdni Hamida B4nu
Begam, the mother of the Emperor Akbar^ and spent several
days of happiness and pleasure in the camp of Hind41. The
Emperor now forbad him to go to Kandah&r, and directed him
to return to Luhari.
*Kar&cha Kh&n, who was governor of Kandahar, wrote letters
to Mirz& Hinddl, inviting him to Eandahir, and the Mirz&
started off and went thither. When Hum&yun was informed
of it, he was much troubled by the want of union among his
brothers. Mirzi Y&dg&r N&sir had pitched his camp about two
miles below the royal camp, and the river ran between the two
camps. He also now expressed his intention of going to Kan-
dah&r. On the Emperor being informed of this, he sent Mir
Abu-1 Bakd to reassure the Mirzd, and to forbid his going to
Kandah&r.' As he was crossing the river on his return, a party
^ Sh&h Husain proposed that Ham&jdn should take possession of the countrjr of
Gfa&chk(ui, between Tatta and the Kan, as a means of furthering his views on 6njar&t. In
thb he promised to support him.— .^^ar-itdmn, toI. i., p. 2 10. SeeVol. I. suprd^ p. 316.
' An agreement was made with the Mirz& that he was to have one-third of Hind^sttei
when it was recovered, as also Ghaznl, Charkh, and Lohgar^ which B&bar had giyen
to the Mirz4'8 molStixx,'~Akbar-ndfMf toL i., p. 212.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
208 HIZAMU-D DIK AHMAD.
came out of the fort of Bakhar, and assailed his boat with a
shower of arrows. One of them pierced the Mir, and he died.
The Emperor showed great sorrow for his loss. The date of
his death, 948 h., is found in the words Suriir-i kdindt.
After this Mirzd Yadg&r N&sir crossed the river, and paid a
visit to the royal camp. After much consultation it was resolved
that the Mirzd should be left at Bakhar, and that His Majesty
should march on to effect the conquest of Tatta. But the Mirz&
did not show any' signs of concord and friendliness. When the
Emperor marched for Tatta,^ a large body of soldiers parted
from him and stayed at Bakhar. Mirzd Yadg&r N&sir remained
at Bakhar, and increased his forces, because during that year
no^ heavenly or terrestrial evil had befallen the agriculture of
Bakhar. His Majesty now proceeded by means of boats to the
fort of Sihwan.^ A party of soldiers on board of the boats, as
they came near to the fort, landed and attacked a body of men
who had come out of the fort, and drove them in again.
The victors returned, and represented that the reduction of
the- fortress was an easy matter, so His Majesty crossed over
the river, and invested the place.^ But before his arrival, a
party of Sh&h Husain's officers had entered it, and had done
their best to increase its strength. When Sh&h Husain heard
that it had been invested, he proceeded by boats to the vicinity
of the Emperor's camp, and employed himself in cutting off
the supply of grain. Great scarcity followed, and many men
lived (entirely) upon the flesh of animals. The siege went on
for nearly seven months, and the place was not captured, so a
messenger was sent to Mirzd Y&dg&r N&sir at Bakhar, to UM
him that the fall of the fort depended upon his approach ; for
if the besiegers marched to attack Sh&h Husain. the garrison
would be free to gather in provisions, and so protract the defence.
1 On the Ist Jmn&da-l Mivc^AJcbar-ndma^ yol. i., p. 213.
2 Two MSS. omit the negative, and so are in accord with Enkine (toL iL,
p. 226) ; but it seems to be required by the sense and the previous ^ because " (d^»^.
8 "Written "Siyfthwto" and " Siyfth&n."
* He reached Sihw&n on the I7th Bajab.— j^dor-iidiNff, toL i., p. 213.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT.I AKBARr. 209
Want of salt and scarcity of grain would prevent the ro jal forces
remaining nnder the fort much longer ; but if Mirz& Y4dgdr
would attack Shfih Husain, the latter would be unable to moun-
tain his position. Mirz& Y&dg&r sent a portion of his force,
but no advantage was gained through this reinforcement. Again
a messenger was sent to call Mirzd Y&dg&r, and ' Abdu-1 GhaMr,
who was Mlr-i mdl of the Emperor, received, the commission.
'Abdu-1 Ghafur went to Mirz4 Y&dg&r, and spoke about the
perilous condition of the royal army, but the Mirz4 and his
officers deemed it advisable to remain where they were^ and
effect the conquest of Bakhar.
Sh&h Husain had sent representatives to Mirz& Y&dg&r N&sir,
and had drawn near to his camp. He promised that he would
acknowledge the supremacy of the Mirzd, give him his daughter
in marriage, and read the khutha in his name.^ Delighted with
these offers, the Mirz& was hoodwinked by Sh&h Husain, and
80 placed himself in hostility to the Emperor. Having thus
secured himself against Mirzd Y&dg&r, and being aware of the
distress and weakness of the army of Hum4yun, Sh&h Husain
adyanced closer to the royal camp, and captured the vessels
(which were conveying provisions) for the army. Unable to
continue the siege of Sihwdn, the Emperor was compelled to
retreat towards Bakhar.' When he approached near to Mirz&
T&dg&r Nasir, he sent to him for boats in which to cross the
river, and the Mirz&, who was in league with the people of
Tatta, sent to them, desiring them to come at night and carry
off the boats. Next morning he artfully reported that the
euemy had carried off the boats. The Emperor remained in-
active some days for want of boats. At length, two zamlnddrs
of Bakhar waited upon him, and (under their guidance) some
boats which had been sunk were raised. Hum&ydn then crossed
' He leprewnted that he wu old and had no son, that he vonld give him hii
^ngfater, leaye him hia treaniree, reoognixe him as facoeflsor, and help him to oon*
(pa Onjar&t— ^ifc^ar-fK^Mo, YoL i., p. 214.
> He commenoed his retreat on the 17th Zl-1 ka'da.^>i3. p. 215.
VOL. T. 14
Digitized by VjOOQIC
210 NIZAlfU-D DTK AHMAD.
the riTer. When Mirz4 Y&d^ N&sir learnt of the
over, being greatly alarmed and ashamed^ he, without wuting
upon the Emperor, marched off hastilj against Sh&h Hnsain ;
and the ktter being quite unprepared, the Mirz& fell upon a
large force from Tatta which had disembarked, and killed and
made many prisoners, and then returned. After this aetion,
Sh&h Husain returned to Tatta, and Mirzd Y&dg&r N&sir,
repentant and ashamed, waited upon the Emperor and presented
the heads of his enemies. Once more Humdyun forgave him,
and spoke not a word of all that had passed.
Sh&h Husain now wrote letters to Mirz& Y&dg&r N&sir, and
again drew him over to his side. The Sh&h requested him
to secure for him the two zaminddrs who had obtained the boats
for the Emperor. These men, being informed of the demand,
repaired to the camp of Hum&yiin. Mirz& Y&dg&r sent a
messenger to Hum&yun, representing that he had some revenne
matters relating to his yd^ir of Bakhar to settle with these two
zaminddrs^ and requested that they might be sent to him. The
Emperor ordered that several persons should accompany the
men, and bring them back again when the business was con-
cluded. The instant Mirz& Y&dg&r N&sir saw them, he took
them forcibly from the Einperor^s men, and sent them to Sh&h
Husain. Thus he once more exhibited his animosity to the
Emperor, and never again sought a reconciliation.
The men of Hum&yun''s army, being in great distress, began
to desert by ones and twos to Mirz& Y&dg&r N&sir. Mun'^im
Kh&n^ also, and his brother, had thoughts of running away.
This intention was communicated to Hum&y&n, and he ordered
them into confinement. Mirz& Y&dg&r N&sir, in the depths of
his infamy, now prepared to turn his arms against Hum&yun,
and the latter, being informed of his movements, made ready
for fighting. H&shim IJeg, a person high in Mirz& Y&dg&r's
confidence, when he heard of his proceedings, restrained him,
and nolens volens made liim return. It now became evident
1 He who became Khdn-khdndm in the reign of Akbar.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKXT-I AKBABr. 211
io Humiy^n, that if he tarried longer his men would all desert
to Mirzi Y&dg&r N&sir, and that the worst might be expected
firom the Mirz&'s baseness. In this extremity, he resolved upon
maiching to M41 Deo, one of the faithful zaminddrs of Hindtis-
t&n, who at that time surpassed all the zaminddrs of Hindust&n
in power and in the number of his forces. This M&l Deo had sent
letters to Bakhar, declaring his loyalty^ and offering assistance
in effecting the subjugation of Hindust&n.
Hnm4yun accordingly marched* towards Mil Deo's country
by way of Jesalmir. The ruler of Jesalmir* shamefliUy took
an' unmanly course. He sent a force to attack the small party
of the Emperor on the march, but it was defeated and driven
baek with loss. Hum&yun had a great many men wounded.
He marched with all possible speed till he reached the country
of M41 Deo. Then he sent on [Shamsu-d din Muhammad]
Atk4 Kh&n to Mil Deo at Joudhpor, while he himself halted for
a few days.
\Pr0ceeding9 of Mirzds Sinddl, Kdmrdn, and ^Aakari at
Kandahdr, Ghazni, and Kabul.']
Hum&ydn remained on the borders of M&l Deo's territories
awaiting the return of Atk& Kh4n. When M41 Deo was in-
formed of the Emperor*s weakness^ he was much alarmed, for
he knew that he had not sufficient forces of his own to withstand
Sher Kh&u. For Sher Ehdn had sent an ambassador to M&l
Deo, holding out great expectations ; and the latter, in the ex-
treme of perfidy, had promised to make Hum&ydn a prisoner if
possible, and to give him over into the hands of his enemy.
M&gor, and its dependencies, had &llen into the power of Sher
Elh&n, and consequently he was afraid lest Sher Khiu should
1 He started on the 2l8t Maharram, 949, for ITcb. Bemoving from thence on the
18th BabS'n-l awwaU he prooeeded by Diwarfiiral and Wfcsilpnr to a place twelve
kot from Bikanir, at which place he arrived on the 17th Rabi'n-l ftUiir. Thence he
proeeeded to PahltSdi, ihirty kot from Jondhpnr, and afterwards made three more
fimrard marches to the tank of JQki. — Akbar'Wima^ vol. i., p. 210.
* Aoooidiog to Aba-1 Fasl his name was *'fiai Lon Karaa."— /^ p. 210.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
212 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
be annoyed and send a large army to his territory against
Hum&ydn. To keep the Emperor in ignorance, M&l Deo
detained the envoy Atk& Eh&n, and did not give him per-
mission to return. But Atk& Kh&n contrived to ascertain
what was passing through the mind of M61 Deo, and went off
without any formal dismissal.
One of the Emperor's librarians, who at the time of his
defeat had fled to M&l Deo, now wrote to the Emperor, in-
forming him that M&l Deo was bent upon treachery, and
advising him to get out of his territory as quickly as possible.
Atk& Eh&n also spoke in the strongest terms upon the matter.
So Hum&ydn marched off at once to Amarkot. Two Hindus,
who had come to act as spies upon him, fell into his hands,
and were brought to his presence. They were questioned, and
an order was given that one of them should suffer the punish-
ment of death, with the object of arriving at the exact fiicts
of the matter. The two prisoners broke loose, and snatching
a knife and a dagger from two bystanders, they despatched
seventeen living creatures, men, women, and horses, before they
were overpowered and slain. The Emperor's own horse was
among the animals killed. As he had no other horse to ride,
his equerries sought to obtain some horses and camels from
Tardi Beg, but he disgraced himself by giving a refusal. Then
the Emperor mounted a camel. Nadim Koka was walking on
foot, while his mother was riding his horse ; but when he saw
the Emperor seated on the camel, he made his mother dismount,
presented the horse to the Emperor, and made her ride on the
camel which he had used.
The road lay through a loose sand, and water was not pro-
curable. The army toiled on with great difficulty, and every
moment the news came of the approach of Mai Deo. He
Emperor ordered Mun'im Kh&n, with a detachment, to march
cautiously and slowly in the rear, and if the enemy ap»
proached, to give him battle. When night came on, that
detachment lost the way, and at daybreak the enemy's
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBABI. 213
forces were in sight. Shaikh 'Ali Beg, Darwesh Eoka, and
some others were (in the rear)^ numbering in all twenty-two
persons. Darwesh Beg, son of B&ki Jal&ir, was one of the
party. They proceeded against the enemy, who wtm emerging
from a narrow defile. Shaikh 'Ali killed the commander of the
enemy with his first arrow, and every arrow that bis little band
discharged wounded some prominent man of the enemy^s army.
Unable to endure this, the enemy turned, and his great army
fled before such an insignificant troop. Many were killed in
their flight, and many camels fell into the hands of the victors.
When the intelligence of the victory reached the Emperor, he
hastened to publicly express his thanks.
The army encamped by a well which contained a little water,
and the party which had lost its way during the night now came
in, which was another cause of rejoicing. Next day the march was
resumed, and for three days no water was found. On the fourth
they reached a well: a drum was beaten when the bucket reached
the surface of the earth, to give the bullock-driver notice to
stop ; ^ for the well was so deep that a call would not reach him.
In the intensity of their thirst, some men could not restrain
themselves. Four or five threw themselves upon the bucket,
the rope broke, and the bucket fell back into the well. Over-
come with suffering, they uttered cries and lamentations, and
some cast themselves intentionally into the well. In this way
many perished through thirst. Next day the march was re-
sumed, and at the hottest time they reached a river (dS). The
horses and camels had not tasted water for several days, and
now they drank so much that many of them died.
At length, with extreme toil, they reached Amarkot, which is
100 kas distant from Tatta. The rand, that is to say the ruler
(hakim) of Amarkot,' was kindly disposed, and came out to meet
1 l%e baeket was drawn up by a ballook by means of a rope pasring over a wbeel
at the top of the well, and the rope was so long that a dram was required to make
the bulloek-driTer hear.
^ ** Bans Pars&d hj Jiame."'—Akbar'ndma, vol. i., p. 220.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
214 NIZiCMIT.I) DTK AHV AD.
the Emperor, and offered his services. The army tested from
their hardships some days in the city, and whatsoever the
Emperor had in his treasury he distributed among his soldiers.
He had arrived here with no great force, so he levied a sum
of money from Tardi Beg and others as a benevolence, and
graciously presented the rand and his sons with gold and
girdles and daggers. Shah Husain Arghun had shun the
&ther of the rdnd^ and so the rand now collected a consider-
able number of men from his territories, and went with the
Emperor in the direction of Bakhar. The Emperor^s family,
with their paraphernalia, under his orders remained at Amarkot.
Khw&ja Mu'azzam, brother of Maryam MakanI, was left in
charge of them.
Fortune now for a time changed its treatment of the Emperor,
by giving him a son, and impressing an imperishable mark upon
the page of time.^ The child was bom on the fith Rajab, 949
(15th October, 1542). Tardi Beg Eh&n conveyed this intelli-
gence to the Emperor in the neighbourhood of Amarkot, and
the Emperor under spiritual guidance, as will be narrated in
the proper place, gave to the child the name of Jal&lu-d din
Muhammad Akbar.'
He then continued his march towards Bakhar, but he wrote
very urgent letters as to the safety of the young prince. Upon
reaching the pargana of Jun, he halted there for a while. He
sent for his family and the suite of the prince, and then his eyes
were gladdened by the sight of his son. The force which had
been collected from the parts around dispersed while he remained
at Jiin; and his brave and intrepid officer. Shaikh *Ali, fell in
an action with the troops of Shfih Husain Arghdn, in one of
the parganaa of Tatta. His soldiers began to desert one by one
from his camp. Mun'im Eh&n even went off. His Majesty,
seeing that it was not advisable to remain longer in this country,
determined upon going to Kandah&r. At this time he was joined
' This passage is greatly compressed.
' He is already styled by antidpation ** His Majesty the Emperor, King of
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AXBAET. 216
bj Bairam Khfin,^ who had oome from Gojar&t. He now sent
representatives to Sb&h Husain Arghun, asking for boats to
enable him to cross the river, and the Sh&h, delighted with his
determination, sent him thirty boats and 300 camels. His
Majesty then crossed the river, and began his march to Eandah&r.
Shih Hnsain sent a person to Mirz& 'Askari and Mirzi
K&mr&n, to inform them of the Emperor's intention to march
to Kandah&r, and they wrote back desiring him to bar his pro-
gress and make him prisoner. The perfidious Mirzfi 'Askari,
when His Majesty reached Sh&l and Mast&n,' marched rapidly
from Kandah&r, and sent forward Hawaii ' Uzbek to watch his
movements. This man had received kindness from the Emperor.
He obtained a powerful horse from Mirz& 'Askari, and betook
himself to the Emperor's camp. When he arrived, he dis-
mounted from his horse, and went to the tent of Bair&m Kh&n,
' The edebnted Bair&m Kb&n, who plays bo eonspioxioiu a part in tiiif and the
fonowing reign, and to whom the neoTery of India is in great measure attributable.
Bairfim Kh&n was a Turk of the Kar&-Kuinl& branch. He was bom in Badakhsh&n
and studied at Balkh. At the age of sixteen he entered the army of Humfrytin, and
fongfat in the disastrous battle of Kanauj. After the rout, he took refuge with R6j&
Mitr Sen at the town of Lakhnor, in Sambhal. Sher Sh&h demanded his surrender,
and the R&j6, afbdd to reftise, sent the Kh6n to him. He was brought to Sher Sh&h
when on his way to M61wa, and was received with such kindness and respect as
showed the desire of Sher Sh&h to win him over. The Sh&h*s overtures were not
sneceasfnl, and at Barh&mpar Bair4m Eh6n effected his escape, accompanied by
Abd-1 E&nm, formerly Governor of Qwalior. They were encountered by a party of
Sher Sh&h*s adhereota, when Ab&-1 K6sim, who was a man of very noble presence,
was mistaken for Bair6m and seized. Bairfrm then manfully came forward and
declared himself. Ab(i-l K&sim, in brave devotion to his friend, exclaimed, ** This is
my servant, who would sacrifice himself for me, take your hands off him.*' So
Bairfim Kh&n escaped, and went to Sult&n liahmiid in Gujarlit, who also wished to
retain him ; but the Khim pressed his desire of going on the pilgrimage. Ostensibly
with this view, he went to Surat, but passed over to Kathiw&r, and joined Hum&yCin
as above related. Abd-1 K&sim was carried prisoner to Sher Sh&h, who had not the
magnanimity to appreciate his friendly devotion, and put him to death. According
to. Abd-1 Fazl, Sher Sh&h spoke aftervrards of his conversation with Bair&m Kh&n,
and of the conviction which he then felt of being unable to gain him. Bair&m Khan
had some reputation as a poet, and B&dadnl quotes some of his writings. — Akbar'
ndmaj vol. i., p. 22i.—Tabakdt'i Akbari.-^Bee also Blochmann*s Ain-i Akbari,
p. 316, and Erskine's Baber and Sumdyitn, vol. ii., p. 258.
> If aatang.
s One MS. reads <' Jaw&ni." The Akbar-ndma has << J£nl,*' and Erskine << Chupi."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
216 NIZAMU-D BrN AHMAD.
whom he informed of Mirz4 'Askari^s advance, and of his de-
signs against the Emperor. Bairam Eh&n immediately proceeded
to the Emperor, and standing at the back of the tent he told him
of Mirz& 'AskarCs approach. '' What is the worth of Elanda-
h&r and E&bul,'" said the Emperor, *Hhat I should strire with
my faithless brothers P ^^ Then he mounted his horse, and sent
Khw£ja-i Mu'azzam and Bair&m Eh&n to bring up the Empress.
They made all speed to do so, and conyeyed her and the infant
prince to the Emperor. There were yery few horses in the
Emperor's train, so Tardf Beg was asked for one. Again he
gave a churlish refusal,^ and would not himself accompany his
master.
The Emperor determined to go to ^Ir&k, and started off
thither, taking with him the Empress, and haying only a few
persons as escort. The young prince was only one year old,
and the weather was yery hot, so he was left behind. Mirzi
^Askari soon afterwards reached the camp, when he was informed
that the Emperor had gone safely off, leaving a party in charge
of his camp. Next day he, in his extreme insolence, entered the
Emperor's audience hall, and Atk& Kh&n delivered up to him
the young prince. Under the orders of the Mirzd, TardI Beg'
was made prisoner, and officers were sent to search the tents
and seize all the effects of the Emperor. Then he carried the
prince off to Eandah&r, and gave him into the charge of Sult&n
Begam, his own wife, who treated him with great tenderness.
The Emperor was accompanied by twenty-two persons, among
whom were Bair&m Kh&n, Ehw&ja Mu'azzam, B&b& Dost
Bakhshi, Ehw&ja Gh&zi, Haidar Muhammad Akhtar-begf,
Mirzd Euli Beg, Shaikh Ytisuf, Ibr&him Aisbak-Ak&si, and
Hasan 'Ali Beg Aishak-&k&s{. They set off without even deter-
mining their route. When they had gone a little way, they feU
in with three or four Bildchis, who directed them, and they
^ Ab Erskine remarks, Tardi Beg seems to have been a rongli old soldier, who kept
his own men and cattle in order, and resented any attempt to make him liable ibr the
&altB and negligence of others. — ^Erskine, vol. ii., p. 251.
Digitized by CjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AEBARf. 217
arrived with p^reat toil at the fort of B&b& H&ji. The Turks
who were in the place gave them such provisions as they had.
Khw&ja Jalalu-d din, son of Mahmud, who had been sent by
Mirza 'Askari to collect the revenues of this district, waited
upon the Emperor, and presented him with horses, camels,
mules, and such things as he possessed. Next day H&j{ Mu-
hammad Koki, who had escaped from Mirz4 'Askari, waited
upon the Emperor. The hostile proceedings of his brothers
made these parts no safe place for His Majesty, so he proceeded
onwards towards Khur&s&n and 'Ir&k. Upon entering Sist&n,
Ahmad Sult&n Shamlu, governor of the province under Sh&h
Tahmasp, received him with the greatest kindness. He remained
some days in Sistan, and Ahmad Sult&n showed him ever}'^ kind
of hospitality and attention, sending even his own women to
wait upon the Empress as handmaids. Ahmad also presented
to him all kinds of provisions and necessaries, and enrolled him-
self among the number of his slaves. All these His Majesty
courteously accepted, and then presented them to him.
Upon holding a consultation, Ahmad Sult&n advised His
Majesty to proceed to 'Ir&k by way of Tabas Kilaki, because
that way was the nearest, and he offered to accompany him on
the road. His Majesty replied that he had heard great praise
of the city of Hir&t, and that it would be more pleasant for him
to proceed by that route. So His Majesty started for 'Ir&k,
attended by Ahmad Sult&n. At that time Sult&n Muhammad
Mirz&, eldest son of Sh&h Tahm&sp, was governor of Hir&t, and
Muhammad Kh&n Sharfu-d din Ughll Taklti held the post of
At&lik or tutor to the young prince. When they heard of the
near approach of the Emperor, they sent 'Ali Sult&n, who was
one of the nobles of Taklu^ to meet him and conduct him in
with due honour. He joined His Majesty on the borders of the
territory of Hir&t, and brought him with all ceremony to the
city. The prince, with his officers and attendants, then pro-
ceeded to wait upon him and pay their respects, omitting
nothing that could do him honour. Muhammad Eh&n was
admitted to the privilege of an introduction.
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218 NIZAMU-B DTN AHMAD.
His Majesty, with his retinue, halted at Hir&t. Mahammad
Kh&n treated him with the greatest hospitality, and His Majesty
was highly pleased with his reception. He received all that he
could require, and lacked nothing until the time of his meeting
with Sh&h Tahm&sp. All the palaces and gardens of Hir&t are
beautiful to Bee, and His Majesty visited them, after which
he took his departure for Meshhed and Tus. Sh&h ^Ali Sult&n
Istajlu, governor of Meshhed, also did all in his power to show
honour and hospitality to His Majesty, and under the orders
of Shah Tahm&sp, every governor on the route supplied him
with all things he required. Under the orders of the Sh&h, a
large number of nobles and great men went forth to meet him,
and the arrangement was made that, from D&magh&n to the
Sh&h^s camp, one of these nobles was to have charge of the
duties of hospitality in each march. Provisions were sent firom
the royal camp, and His Majesty was feasted at every stage
until he reached Kazwin. The Sh&h's camp had been moved
to Pul&k-Surlik, and Bair&m Kh&n was sent thither by His
Majesty to wait on the Sh&h. He returned, bringing a letter
congratulating His Majesty on his arrival. His Majesty con-
tinued his journey, and at every place he came to he received
marks of attention from the people. At length he reached
Pul&k-Surlik, and had an interview with Sh&h Tahm&sp, who
entertained him and showed him every honour and distinction,
worthy both of host and guest.
In the course of conversation, the Sh&h asked the Emperor
what was the reason of his defeat, and he replied that it was
the rivalry and faithlessness of his brothers. Bahr&m Mirz&,
the Sh&h's brother, was offended at this,^ and treacherously
advised the Sh&h to have the Emperor killed in the course of
the night. But the Sh&h's sister Sultanam,' who was very
> There ia no meaning in the anecdote as here given. Shortly afterwards Bahrlim
Mirz& presented a howl and ewer for the ablutions of the Sh&h, who turned toward*
Hum&ydn, and said, ** This is the way you should have treated your hrothers." Upon
Hum&ytin's asaentiug to this remark, Bahr&m's anger was kindled." — See Erskine,
vol. ii., 290. s Or 6ult4B Kh&naiii.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAXiCT-I AXBABT. 219
higlilj esteemed by her brother, and exercised great influence
in all affairs of State, did all in her power to protect and help
the Emperor. K&zi Jah&n Eazwini, who was the Sh&h^s diwdn^
and Hakim Nuni-d din Muhammad, who was hia physician,
and was high in his fayonr and confidence, were not content to
be at all wanting in goodwill towards the Emperor. The hakim
both openly and privately lost no opportunity of forwarding
the Emperor's interests. One day the Sh&h, in order to gratify
the Emperor, went out with a party of nobles and grandees to
hunt with bows and arrows. Bahr&m Mirzd, who had an old
quarrel with Abu-1 £&sim KhuIafiS^ ander pretence of shooting
at some animal, struck him in front with an arrow, and he died
upon the spot.
Sh&h Tahm&sp, having assented to the Emperor^s wish to
depart, provided all necessaries for his journey, and he appointed
his son Sh&h Mur&d, then an infant at the breast, with a force
of 10,000 men to protect him. Hum&yun expressed his inten-
tion of going to Tabriz and Ardabd, and the Shah wrote /armans
to the governors of those places, directing them to show him
every honour and attention. After travelling to those places,
the Emperor turned towards Kandah&r, and went to pay a visit
to Meshhed the holy. He had brought the Kazilb&sh (Persian)
prince with him, and Bid&gh Eh&n, the prince's tutor, was com-
mander of his army. When they reached the fort of Garmsir,
they took possession of the Garmsir territories. On arriving at
Kandah&r, a large body of men sallied out of the fort and made
what resistance they could, but were defeated. The Kazilbash
army then encamped within view of Kandah&r. Five days
afterwards the Emperor arrived, and it was then invested. The
siege went on for three months, and there were daily engage-
ments, in which many men on both sides were killed.
Bairkm Kh&n now went to E&bul on an embassy to K&mr&n
Mirz&. He was encountered on his way by a party of Haz&ras,
and a fight ensued, but he overpowered them and went on to
K&buL There he had an audience of Mirz& E&mr&n, and he also
Digitized by VjOOQIC
220 KIZAMU-D DrK AHMAD.
had interyiews with Mirz& Hind&l, Mirzd Snlaim&n son of Kh&n
Mirzfi, and Mirzd Y&dg&r N&sir who had arrived from Bakhar
in a distressed condition. Mirz& K&mr&n sent Mahd ^Ali
Eh&n-z&da-i begam to Eandah&r with Bair&m Kh&n to settle
terms of peace if possible. When they arrived at EandiA&r,
and waited on the Emperor, Mirz4 'Askari was still intent upon
fighting (and holding out).
The Persian forces were disheartened by the long deration
of the siege, and had thoughts of returning. They had con-
ceived that when Hum&yiin approached. Kandah&r, the
Ghaghat&i tribes would rally round him. But when a long
time passed, and no one came to his succour, and the £Eust of
Mirz& E&mr&n^s advance to the assistance of Mirz& ^Askari
became generally known, the Persians were greatly alarmed.
By a happy turn of affairs Mirzfi E&mr&n fell back, and Mirz&
Husain Kh&n and Faz&il Beg, brother of Mun'im Eh&n, deserted
him and joined the Emperor. The Turkom&ns were inspirited,
and after a few days Muhammad Sult&n Mirz&, XJlugh Beg
Mirz&, K&fiim Husain Sult&n, and Sher-a%an Beg came over.
This greatly encouraged the Persians. Muyid Beg, who was a
prisoner in the fort, managed to escape by stratagem, and let
himself down from the walls by a rope. His Majesty received
him with great kindness. A party also under the command of
Abd-l Hasan, nephew of Earr&cba Eh&n, and Munawwar Beg,
son of Mir Beg, escaped from the fortress. Mirz& 'Askari now
lost heart, and proposed to surrender. The Emperor in his
great kindness granted him terms. He then called together
the Persian commanders, and induced them to engage that for
three days no one should molest the numerous Chaghat4i
families that were in the place. In consequence of this engage-
ment, the garrison of the place came forth next day, with their
wives and families. Mirz& 'Askarf also came out, and with
shame waited on the Emperor, who uttered not a word of re-
proach. The Ghaghat&i chiefs, with their swords upon their necks
and shrouds in their hands, were allowed to present themselves
to the Emperor, and were pardoned.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAXAT.I ASBABI. 221
It had been agreed with the Persians that as soon as Kanda-
h&r was taken it should be given up to them, and now the
Emperor gave them possession of it, although he possessed no
other territory. Bid^h Kh4n (and) Mirzd Mur&d, son of
Sh&h Tahm&sp, were conducted into the fort^ and the phioe
was surrendered to them. Most of the Persian chiefs returned
to 'Ir&k, and no one remained with Mirz& Mur&d except
Bid&gh Kh&n, Abii-I Path Sult&n A&h&r, and Sufi Wall
Snit&n Ead&mu.
When winter came on, the Ghaghat&l people had no place
of shelter, so the Emperor sent a person into Kandah&r to
Bid^h Kh&n, to represent the need which thej had of some
protection against the rigours of the winter. But he, in his
inhumanity, did not make that reply which the emergency
required. So the Chaghat&is were in great trouble. ''Abdu-Ua
Kh&n and Jamil Beg, wbo had come out of Eandah&r, now
fled to E&bul. Mirz4 ^Askari also, having found an oppor-
tunity, made his escape ; but a party being sent in pursuit, he
was caught and brought back. His Majesty then placed him
in confinement. The chie& of the Chaghatfii tribes (ulus) now
met in council, and resolved that under the necessities of the
ease, the fort of Kandah&r must be taken from the Persians,
and should be given up to them again after the conquest of
K&bul and Badakhsh&n. By a strange coincidence, it happened
that Mirz& Mur&d, son of Sh&h Tahm&sp, died on that very
day. So the enterprise was resolved upon, and a strong partj^
was appointed to carry it out. H&ji Muhammad Eh&n, (son of)
Bab& Eashka, went first of all to the gat« of the fortress with
two of his servants. The Turkom&ns, who suspected that the
Emperor wanted to get possession of the place, had for some
days past prevented the Ghaghat&is from entering the town.
It happened that some camels laden with forage were going
into the city, and seizing this opportunity, H&ji Muhammad
proceeded to the gate of the city. The guards assembled round
the gate, and refused to let him enter. With great daring he
Digitized by VjOOQIC
222 NIZiCMU-D BFN AHMAD.
drew his sword and attacked them, and thej, unable to resist
his onslaught, took refuge in flight. Another party now came
up to support him. They entered the fort, and the Persians
were overpowered. Hum&yiin mounted his horse, and went into
the city. Bidigh Eh&n, greatly annoyed, went to the Emperor,
took leave, and departed for 'Ir&k. The Chaghat&is, to their
great satisfaction, thus obtained possession of KaDdah&r.
After this, Hum&ydn marched to effect the conquest of K&bul,
and left Bairiim Kh&n in charge of E^ndah&r. Mirz& Yfidgar
N&sir and Mirzd Hind&l, having devised a scheme together,
deserted from Mirzd E&mr&n. After being much harassed hy
the Haz&ra tribes on their journey, they joined the Emperor
and proceeded with him to K&bul. Jamil Beg, who was diief
of the territories (through which the Emperor passed), also
came in to offer his services. Mirz& K&mr&D, who had a well-
equipped army, marched out with the intention of fighting, but
every night parties of men deserted his army, and joined Hum4»
yiin. The Emperor then moved his camp, and advanced to a
half kas distance from Eamr&u. That night many men left
Kimrdn^s army and deserted to the Emperor. Mirzd Edmrin^
being alarmed, sent a party of Shaikhs to wait upon the Emperor
and to ask forgiveness. The Emperor agreed to pardon him on
condition of liis coming in and making his submission. K&mr&n
did not accede to this, but fled and shut himself up in the
citadel of K&bul. All his forces came over to the Emperor.
On the same night K&mr&n quitted K&bul, and fled by way
of Bini His&r to Ghazni. Being informed of his flight, the
Emperor sent Mirz& Hind&l in pursuit. The Emperor then
entered K&bul, and at night the citizens, in the extreme of joy,
illuminated the whole city with lamps. On his entering the
palace, Her Hi;;hness the Begani brought the young prinee
Jal&Iu-d din Muhammad Akbar to his father's presence. This
sight lighted up the heart of the Emperor with joy, and he
offered up his thanksgivings for the reunion. The victory waa
accomplished on the 10th Bamaz&n, 953 h., when the piinoe
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AKBART. 223
mm four years two months and five days old. Some place the
event in the year 952 ; ^ but God knows the truth.
After this a person was sent to bring up the forces which
were in Eandah&r. Mirzd Y&dg&r N&sir came to K&bul in
attendance upon the Empress Mary&m Mak&ni Begam. Great
feasts were then held, and the ceremony of circumcising the
young prince was performed. The remainder of that year the
Emperor spent in enjoyment at E&bul. When E&mrfin reached
Gfaazni, he could not get admission into the city, so he went
off into the Haz&ra. Mirza Ulugh Beg was sent to take the
government of Zamin-d&war, and K&mr&n, finding it impos-
sible to remain in that country, went to Bakhar, to Sh&h
Hasun Arghun, who gave htm his daughter in marriage and
assisted him.
In the following year Hnm&ydn marched to Badakhsh&n, for
Mirz& Sulaim&n, son of Eh&n Mirzd, had disregarded the sum-
mons to come in and make his submission. It was therefore
determined to invade Badakhsh&n. Mirzd Y&dg&r N&sir had
been engaged in hostile intrigues, and once more meditated
flight. His intentions being made known to Hum&ydn, an
order was given for placing him in confinement, and a few days
afterwards Muhammad K&sim, under the Emperor's orders, put
him to death.' The Emperor, passing over the heel of the
Hindn-koh (Hindu-Eush), encamped at Shergir&n.' Mirzd
Snlaim&n assembled the forces of Badakhsh&n and gave battle,
bat he was defeated in the first action, and fled into the kohiatdn
of Durdasht. The Emperor then proceeded to T&lik&n and
Kisham/ but he was taken ill, and from day to day he grew
> The Akbar^ndma (toI. L, p. 293) makes the date <' 12th lUmax&D, 962.**
' If r. Enkine (toI. ii., p. 827) sayi be was condemned after a re^sular tiial» in which
vitnesMS were eiaroined and other evidence taken. — Akbar^ndma^ toI. i., pp. 208, 300.
» In one copy ** Shahr-gir&n "—great city. Ab&4 Pazl calls it ** Tir-gir&n," one
of the villages of Anda &b.— Jd. p. 300.
* The Tcrsion in the Tdrikh-i Saldiin-i Afdyhana here says, "The army moved with
the intention of proceeding to the territory and fort of Za&r, bat between the fort of
Za&r and Kisham the Emperor fell sick."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
224 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
worse, so that every one was in anxiety, and no one bat his
immediate attendants were snre of his being alive. There was
consternation in the army, and Earr&cha E^h&n placed Miiza
'Askari in safe custody. The people of Badakhsh&n again com-
menced hostilities. After two months His Majesty recovered,
and sent accounts of his convalescence to all parts. The dis-
turbances thereupon subsided. The royal camp then moved to
the neighbourhood of the fort of Za&r. Ehw&ja Mu'azzam,
brother of the Empress Maryam Mak&ni, killed at this time
Ehw&ja Bashidi, who had come from ^Ir&k in the retinue
(of the Emperor), and then fled to E&bul^ where, by command,
he was placed in confinement.
Mirz& K&mr&n at Bakhar, when he was assured of Humfiyun's
march to Badakhsh&n, assembled a force around him, and made a
rapid march by Ghorband to K&bul. On his way he fell in
with some merchants, from whom he obtained plenty of horses,^
so that he supplied each of his men with a spare horse. When
he reached Ghaznf, a few individuals brought him into tiie
fortress, and Z&hid Beg, thq governor of the place, being off
his guard,' was put to death. Under the orders of the Mirz&
the roads to £&bul were guarded, so that intelligence might not
be carried thither. He then marched rapidly on in full confidence
to E&bul. Muhammad Euli Tughai and Faz&il Beg, and the
force under their command in K&bul, were quite unprepared,
when they were informed that Edmr&n had entered the city.
Muhammad Eh&n was made prisoner while in his bath, and
was instantly put to death. Upon entering the fort, E&mr&n
captured Faz&il Beg and Mihtar vakil, and he had their eyes
put out. He appointed persons to guard the Emperor's ladies
and the young prince.
Intelligence of the fall of E&bul reached the Emperor at Eila
Zafar. The government of Badakhsh&n and Eunduz, which
had been given to Mirzd Hind&l, was transferred to Mirz& Sulai-
^ They were taken by toroe.-^JMar'ndma, toI. i., p. 808.
* According to AbA-l Fail he was drunk.— i^. p. 808.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARF. 225
miuj and Hnm&yun then retained towards K&bul. K&mr&n
meanwhile mustered all the forces he could. Sher-af<];an, who
was allied with him, and Sher 'All, one of his officers, advanced
to Zah&k and Ghorband, and took possession of the roads.
Ham&jiin crossed the river in the valley of Zuh&k, and drove
before him Sher 'All, who resisted to the best of his power.
Hnm&yun then safely crossed the Shaki, but Sher 'All again
annoyed his rear until he arrived at Dih-Afgh&n&n (a suburb
of K&bul). Next day Sher-afgan Beg sallied forth at the head of
all K&mr&n's forces, and a great battle was fought in the lines of
Yart-j&l&. The leading forces of the Emperor were repulsed,
but by the efforts of Mirzd Hind£l, Karr&cha E3i&n, and H&ji
Muhammad Ehan, the enemy was eventually defeated. Sher-
a%an Beg was taken prisoner, and when he was brought into the
Emperor's presence he was put to death, through the exertions of
the nobles. Many of E&mr&n's men fell on this day, and those
who escaped the sword fled into the fort. Sher 'Ali, a man of
imdaunted courage, sallied forth every day and kept up the fight-
ing with all his vigour. On one occasion Sher ^Ali and H&ji
Muhammad Khan encountered each other, and tbe Haji was
wounded.
Intelligence now came in that a caravan with a large number
of horses had arrived at Gh&rig&r&n,^ and E&mr&n sent Sher ^Ali,
with a considerable force, to bring these horses into the city.
Hum&yun was aware of this movement, and drawing nearer to
the city he completely closed all means of ingress and egress.
When Sher 'Ali returned from his expedition, he could find no
way of getting into the place. Eamr&n then sallied forth, and
endeavoured to cat a way through for Sher 'Ali. But the be-
siegers were aware of a sally being intended, and when the forces
came out they were received with a fire of guns and musketry
and driven back. B&ki S&lih and Jal&lu-d din Beg, two of
K&mr&n's most trusted adherents, deserted from him and joined
1 At the entnnce of the Ghorband valley, north of K&bul.
TOL. v. 15
Digitized by VjOOQIC
226 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
the Emperor. Sher 'Ali now gave np all hope of entering
the city. E&mr&n, with dastardly feeling, ordered that His
Highness the young prince Akbar should be exposed upon
the battlements, in the place where the balls and shot of the guns
and muskets fell thickest. But M&ham ^nka took the child
in her bosom, put herself forward, and held him towards the enemy
[f>. the garrison]. So God Almighty preserved him. A part
of the garrison made their way out and went off, all in one direc-
tion. Hum&yun sent men in pursuit, who killed many and made
many prisoners. E&mr&n's spirits fell, and from all parts and
quarters men came in to render assistance to the Emperor.
Mirz& Sulaim&n sent reinforcements from Badakhsh&n, Mirz&
Ulugh Beg came from £andah&r, and.K&sim Husain Sult&n
brou<;ht a body of the men of Sarm Tugh& as a reinforcement
fit)m Kandah&r.
Mirz& K&mr&n now sued for peace, and the Emperor granted
it, upon condition of his making personal submission. But he
was afraid to do this, and sought to make his escape. The chiefi
of the Ghaghat&i tribes were of opinion that the capture of K&mr&n
would be adverse to their interests, so they sent a message in-
forming him that Hum&ytin would, in a day or two, assault the
fort, and advising him to delay no longer in the place. K&mrin,
who was offended with N&mus Beg and Karr&cha Kh&n Beg,
killed three young children of N&mds Beg in revenge, and had
their bodies cast down from the walls of the city — a cruel deed,
which excited the abhorrence of all men both inside and outside
the city. He also &stened Sard&r Beg, the son of Karr&cha
£h&n, upon the summit of the ramparts. Hum&ydn exerted
himself to console Karr&cha Kh&n ; and the Khfin went close
to the fort, and with loud voice declared that if his son were
killed, both Mirz& K&mr&n and Mirzd 'Askari should be
put to death when the city fell. £!&mr&n now despaired on every
point, so he caused a hole to be made through the wall, on
Ehw&ja Khizr's side, and made his way out barefoot at the
place indicated by the nobles (outside who were friendly to his
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABASAT-I AEBAEr. 227
escape). Humfiyun sent H&ji Muhammad Kh&n in pursuit,
who nearly overtook him, and K&mr&n then called out in the
Turki language, ^' I have killed jour father B&b& Eashaka.''
H&ji Muhammad was always ready for a quarrel, (but) when he
heard this he returned. His Highness Prince Akbar now came
to his fikther, and showed him all proper respect. Much charity
was shown to the poor and needy.
After E&mr&n escaped, in a forlorn and destitute^ condition, he
reached the foot of the K4bul mountains, where he was met by a
party of Haz&ras, who plundered him of all he possessed. But
one of the Haz&ras recognized him, and informed the leader of
the band, who conducted him to Zuh&k and B&mi&n, where Sher
'All his adherent still remained at the head of a small force.
He remained there for a week, and nearly 150 horsemen joined
him. Then he marched to Ghori, where Mirz& Beg Birl&s, the
governor of Ghori, with a force of 150 horse and 1000 foot, gave
him battle, and was defeated. The horses and asses of the
vanquished fell into the hands of the victor. Having gathered
some strength, he went to Balkh, where he had a meeting with
Pir Muhammad Khiu, the ruler. Pir Muhammad followed his
own inclination, and came to Badakhsh&n, to the assistance of
K&mr&D. Ghori and Bakal&n fell into the hands of Mirz&
K&mr&n, and many soldiers flocked to his standard. Pir Mu-
hammad then returned to his own country. E&mr&n advanced
against Sulaim&n Mirz& and Ibrdhim Mirzd, and, as they had
no power to resist him, they went away from Talik&n to Eol&b.
E&mran now established his authority over many parts of
Badakhsh4n.
Karracha Eh&n, and some other nobles who had rendered good
service in these days, now recommended some impossible steps to
Humdyun. One was the execution of Khw&ja Gh&zi, the tcazir,
and the appointment of Ehw&ja E&sim to succeed him. This
proposition fell heavily on the heart of His Majesty, and he
1 Fin-eihdn o U-tdmdn. The context ohowi that this is not to be taken quite
UtenOly.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
228 NIZitMU-D Dra AHMAD.
would not accede to their wishes. The noblemen then conspired
togetheri and, mounting their horses at break&st-time, they
drove off the royal flocks (galah)^ which were in Ehw&ja Biw&j,
and went towards Badakhsh&n. After break of day and the
assembling of the army. His Majesty mounted his horse, and
went off in pursuit. The conspirators, by a forced march, reached
Ghorband, and crossing the bridge they destroyed it behind them.
The advanced guard of His Miyesiy came up with a party of
them and inflicted chastisement. At night Hum&yun returned
to E&bul, to make preparations for a march into Badakhsh&n*
The conspirators went on to K4mr&n, leaving Tamar ''Ali in
Panjshir,.to collect and forward intelligence of Hum&yun's move-
ments. His Majesty, having determined to go to Badakhsh4n,
sent farmdns to Mirz& Sulaim&n, Mirza Ibr&him, and Mirz&
Hind&l. Mirz& Ibr&him advanced by way of the fort of Pari&u^
into Panjshir, and getting knowledge of Tamar 'Ali Shagh&li,
he went after him and killed him. He waited upon the Emperor
in the Kar&bligh at K4bul.
At this time Mirz4 K&mr&n sent Sher 'All, at his own request,
to contend against Mirz4 Hind41, but he was taken prisoner by
some of Hindal's men. Mirz4 Hind41 then went to see the
Emperor, and took Sher 'Ali a prisoner with him. The Emperor,
in his generosity, pardoned Sher 'AH, and made a grant to him
of Ghori. K4mr4n, having left Karrdcha Kh4n and his Edbul
confederates at Kisham, had himself gone to T41ik4n. His*
Majesty thereupon sent Mirz4 Hind4l and H4ji Muhammad Eokl
in advance to Kisham. Karr4cha Kh4n then sent to inform
K4mr4n that Mirz4 Hind41 was approaching with a small force,
while Hum47un was at a distance, and that if he hastened up he
might defeat Hind41, and so make the war against Hum4yun an
easier matter. Karr4cha returned to Kisham with all the speed
he could. When he reached the river of T41ik4n, he encountered
Mirz4 Hind41, just as he had crossed the river. At the first
charge Hind4rs troops were defeated and lost all their baggage.
^ In the Panjshir yalley, north of K&bul. See tuprdf Yol III., p. 401.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKirr:i AEBABr. 229
His Majesty now came up with bis army, and was delayed
a little in seeking for a ford. After getting over the river,
his advanced gnard came np with K&mr&n^s rear, and made
Shaikham Ehw&ja Ehizr and Isma^il Ddldi prisoners, and
brought them in to the Emperor. Mirz& E&mrfin &ced round to
repulse this advanced guard ; but as they approached each other,
he descried the standards of the Emperor, and knowing that he
was unable to contend with him, he retreated to T&lik&n, leaving
all his plunder and all his own baggage behind him. Next day
T&lik&n was invested, and Mirz& Sulaim&n came in and joined
Hum&ydn. E&mr&n then sought assistance from the Uzbeks,
and when he found that he had nothing to expect from them he
was greatly cast down, and sent to beg the Emperor to allow
him to go to Mecca. Hum&yiin generously granted his request,
on condition that he would send the rebellious nobles to the
royal court. E&mr&n begged forgiveness for M&n&s Beg, but
sent the other amirs, who came ashamed and downcast to the royal
presence.^ The Emperor, a second time, forgave their offences.
Mirz& E&mr&n proceeded out of the fort, and went to the dis«
tance ot^parasang; but when he was no longer in apprehension of
any harm from the superior power of Hum&yun, he was greatly
ashamed, and turned back with the resolve of paying allegi-
ance to him. As soon as His Majesty was informed of this he
greatly rejoiced, and sent out the mirzds^ to give him a cere-
monial reception. YHien they met, he displayed the greatest
kindness to E&mr&n, who again received the ensigns of sove-
reignty. Three days they remained in the same place, and
feasts and rejoicings went on. After some days the country of
Eol&b^ was given as an iktd' ta E&mr&n.^ Mirz& Sulaim&n and
> Saxr&cba Kh&n was among them, and came with a swoid hanging to his neck. —
Akbar-ndmttj yoL i., p. 385.
3 HindAl and 'Askari.
3 '* Ehnillm, commonly known as Kol&b." — Akhar-ndma^ Tol. i., p. 338. It lies
between Darw&z and Sbnghn&n beyond the Oxus. — ^Erskine, toI. ii., p. 359. Bnraes'
Trarelfl, vol. iiL, p^ 275.
* 'Askail was allowed to go with him, and reoeiyed the district of Karatigln in
jigir^-^Akbar^ttdmay vol. i.» p. 838.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
230 NIZAMXT-D DFN AHMAD.
Mirz& Ibr&him remained in Eisbam. The royal camp then
returned to K&bnl, where it took up winter quarters, and an
order was issued directing the officers to look afler the equip-
ment of the army.
At the end of the year Hum&yun left E&bul, with the intention
of proceeding against Balkh, and a person went to Kol&b to
summon Mirz& E&mr&n and Mirz& 'Askari. When His Majesty
reached Badakhsh&n, Mirz& Ibr&him and Mirz& Hind&l came to
wait upon him, and at the instance of Mirzi Sulaim&n, Mirza
Ibr&hfm was left at Kisham. Mirz& K&mr&n and Mirzd ^Askari
once more showed their hostility, and did not come in to pay
their homage. Hum&yiin marched on to the fort of Aibak, and
the aidlik^ of Pir Muhammad Eh&n, governor of Balkh, with
several of his chief nobles, had to take reftige in the fort, which
Hum&yun then invested. The Uzbeks being reduced to ex-
tremity surrendered at discretion.
In consequence of Kamr&n's defection, a council of war was
held to consider whether he might not make an attempt upon
K&bul while the Emperor was engaged at Balkh. Hum&yun
declared his opinion that as the invaaion of Balkh had been
undertaken, it should be prosecuted in fiill confidence ; so the
march was continued. But many of the men were discouraged
by K&mr&n remaining absent. When the army came near Balkh,
and was about to take up a position, ShSh Muhammad Sult&n
Uzbek, with three hundred horsemen, made his appearance. A
force was sent against him, and a sharp fight followed. K&buli,
brother of Muhammad K&sim Eh&n Fauji, was killed in the
conflict, and one of the chiefs of the Uzbeks was taken prisoner.
Next day Pir Muhammad Eh&n came out of the city, (and was
joined by) 'Abdu-1 'Aziz Eh&n, son of 'Abid Eh&n, and Sult&n
of Hiss&r,' who had come to his assistance.
After mid-day the two armies came in contact, and the battle
began. Hum&yun was fully accoutred, and with Mirz& Sulaiman,
1 <'Ehw&ja M&k" was the atdlik.-^Akbar-fidma, toI. i., p. 347.
> One MS. reads << Saidtin i Mistdr," the Sult&ns of HissCur.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAfiT. 231
Mirzi Hind&l, and H&ji Mahammftd Sult&ii, defeated the yan-
guard of the enemy, and drove it back towards the city. Pir
Mohammad Kh&n also and his men were repulsed and driven
into Balkh. At sunset the Ghaghat&i troops, who had got near
to the city, turned back. Many of the Ghaghat&i chiefs had
their wives and families in K&bul, and were alarmed because
Mirz& K&mr&n had not joined the army. So the night before
the day when Balkh would have &llen, they met together and
conveyed their opinion to His Majesty that it was not advisable
to pass over the river of Balkh, but rather to fall back towards
Darra Gaz, and take up and secure a strong position ; then, afler
a short time, the garrison of Balkh would surrender. They
urged their views so strongly that Hum&yun retreated. Darra
Gaz is on the road to K&bul, so friends and foes, being unaware
of what had passed in the council, conceived the notion that a
retreat to K&bul was intended. The Uzbeks were emboldened,
and followed in pursuit. Mirz& Sulaim4n and Husain Kuli
Sult&n, the seal-bearer, who protected the rear, had an action
with the van of the Uzbeks, and were defeated, and then the
chiefs who were anxious to go to K&bul made off thither, each
one taking the road that pleased him. All control was lost.
About a thousand of the enemy came up. His Majesty, who
fought in the conflict, inflicted a wound with his spear on one of
the foremost of the enemy and unhorsed him; and by the
strength of his own arm he cut his way out of the confusion.
Mirz& Hind&l, Tardi Beg, Mun'^im Kh&n, and a party of other
nobles saved themselves by fighting. Sh&h Bid&gh Khan and
Tolak Kh&n Kuchin performed deeds of great valour in this
battle.
Hum&yiin reached K&bul in safety, and remained there for
the rest of the year. Mirz& K&mr&n stayed at Kol&b, and
Gh&kar ''All Beg Kol&bi, who was hostile to him, attacked
Kol&b with a large force. K&mr&n sent Mirz& 'Askari against
him, but 'Askari was defeated ; and on being sent a second time,
he again returned unsuccessful. Mirz& Sulaim&n and Mirz& Ibr&-
Digitized by VjOOQIC
232 KIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
him now marched against E&mr&n from Kisham and Kundaz, and
he, not having sufficient forces to oppose them, retreated to Bostik.
A body of Uzbeks fell upon him on the march and carried off
a large part of his baggage. In this distressed state £&mr&n
wished to proceed bj way of Zoh&k and B&mi&n into the Haz&ia.
When Hum&y dn was informed of this, he sent a force to Zoh&k and
B&mf&n to protect the country. Earr&cha Kh&n, El&sim Husun
Sult&n, and some other traitorous nobles, despatched a messenger
to E4mrfin, advising him to take the road to Zoh&k, and promis-
ing to join him in the day of battle. When Mirz& K&mr&n
came in sight, Karr&cha Kh&n and his associates cast the dirt
of ignominy on their heads, and deserted Hum&y un. Being joined
by these men, K&mr&n offered battle. Although Hum&ydn's
force was small, it met the attack bravely, and a desperate
fight followed. Plr Muhammad Akhtd and Ahmad, son of
Mirz& KuU, were killed in this fight. His Majesty exerted
himself greatly. He received a sword-cut on the top of his
head, and his horse was wounded; but he kept his assailants off
with his spear, and made his way out of the fight.^ He then
proceeded towards Zuh4k and B&mi&n, and was joined by a party
of fugitives, who had taken the same route.
Mirzd K&mr&n now, once more, obtained possession of K&bnl.
Hum4yun went with H&ji Muhammad and a party of adherents
towards Badakhsh&n. Sh&h Bid&gh, Tolak Euchin, and Majntin
K&kshfil, and a party of ten were sent out to reconnoitre in the
direction of E&bul, but of the whole party, one only, Tolak
Euchin, returned to the Emperor. Astounded at the treachery
of his followers, he went and encamped at Andar&b. Here he
was joined by Sulaiman Mirz4, Ibr&him Mirz&, and Mirz&
Hinddl, with their forces. After forty days Hum&yiiin marched
towards E&bul. In the mountains he was met by Mirz& Kamr&n,
Earr4cha Eh&n, and the forces of E&bul.' The armies drew
^ See suprd, p. 145.
* Ham&ytiii tried to arrange matters peaceably, bat bia efforts were fruatnited,
cbiefly by Karr&cba Kb&n's influence over K&mitn. — Akbar^ndma^ toL L, p. 363.
See Erskine, yoI. ii., p. 391.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAS^Frl AKBABT. 233
up against each otbw. ILwe Ehw&ja 'Abdu-s Samad Masur
deserted K&mr&ii and joined Hnm&yun, who received him
graciodsly. E4mr&n was defeated, and fled to the moantains of
Mandrnd.^ The traitor, Earr&cha Kh&n, was taken prisoner,
and was being conducted to Hnmayiin, when Eambar 'Ali
Bah&ri, whose brother had been pnt to death at Eandah&r bj
order of the £h&n, seized the opportunity and killed him. Mirz&
'Askari fell into the hands of the Emperor's men in this battle.
The Emperor now returned to K&bul,.and remained there for
a year in peace. Again a body of soldiers, craving for action,
went off and joined K&mr&n, and he collected round him a body
of nearly 15,000 horse. H&ji Muhammad Kh&n went off with-
out leave to Ghaznin; so Hum&yun was compelled to march
towards Lamgh&n and interrupt E&mr&n's proceedings. Then,
in concert with the Afgh&ns of Muhmand, the khail of D&ud-
z&i, and the chiefis of Lamgh&n, E&mr&n went off towards Sind.
Hum&yun remained for a while in Lamgh&n hunting, and then
returned to E&bul. K&mr&n, supported by the Afgh&ns, again
advanced, and once more Hum&yun marched out against him.
Hum&ytin sent to Bair&m Elh&n, governor of Eandah&r, directing
him by some way or other to go to Ghaznin and secure H&ji Mu-
hammad Eh&n. The H&ji had sent to Miiz& K&mr&n, advising
him to come to Ghazni, and take possession of the country, for he
was ready to show his obedience. Hereupon E&mr&n marched
from Pesh&war by way of Bangash and Gurdez towards Ghaznin,
but before he could reach there Bair&m Khan had entered the
city, and H&ji Muhammad was compelled to go to him. Bair&m
Eh&n and the H&ji went together to E&bul, and E&mr&n, hearing
of this on his march, retreated to Pesh&war.
Hum&yun now returned from Lamgh&n to K&bnl, but a few days
before his arrival H&ji Muhammad had made his escape and had
gone off again to Ghaznin. Bair&m Eih&n was again sent with
some other nobles after him, and when he brought him back the
H&ji received forgiveness. Mirz& ^Askari, under the orders of
^ *" By thfl pass of B&db&j towarcLi the Afghka ooimtrf ."— Enkine, yoL ii. p. 393.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
234 KiZAHir.D DrN ahmad.
Ehw&ja Jal&lu-d din Mahmud, had been carried to Badakhsh&n
and placed under the charge of Mirzd Sulaim&n, who was to conrej
him to Balkh;^ and Sulaim&n accordingly sent him thither. In
the coarse of this journey 'Askari'^s days came to an end in the
country of Btim.
The Afgh&ns kept Miizd E&mr&n among them, and busied
themselyes in raising forces, so Hum&ydn was compelled to
go out against them. In the course of this campaign H&ji
Muhammad Kh&n was executed with his brother, in punish-
ment of his many offences. Supported by the Afghans, Mirz&
E&mr&n made a night attack on Hum&yiin^s camp, and Mirz&
Hind41 was killed in the engagement. The date of his death
is found in the words '' Shahddat ash ha talab shud" K&mr&n's
attack failed, and he retreated. The family and attendants of
Hind&l were sent to Ghaznin with the young prince Akbar, and
the territory of Ghaznin and its dependencies was assigned to
them as an iktd\
When Hum&yun continued his advance agidnst the Afgh&ns,
they were unable to protect K&mr&n any longer, so being with-
out resource he fled to Hinddst&n, and took refuge with [Sult&n]
Salim Sh4h Afgh&n. AH his people and followers were harried,
and Hum&yun then returned to E&bul. After the army had
taken a few days' rest, it marched by way of Bangash and
Gurdez against Hindust&n. All the disaffected in these parts
received chastisement. Hnm&yiin crossed the Indus between
Dinkot and Nil&b (5 Safar, 962 a.h., 29 Deer., 1554 a.d.).
Mirz& Kamr&n, disgusted with the ungenerous treatment he
received from Salim Sh&h hakim of Hindust&n, had taken flight
and escaped into the hills of Si41kot. From thence, by great
energy, he had conveyed himself to Sultdn Adam Ghakar.
Thereupon Sultfin Adam secured him, and wrote to inform
Hura4yun. This overture was graciously received by Hum&yun,
who sent Mun'im Kh4n to demand the captive. Sult4n Adam
^ ThJB was equivalent to banisbment. 'Askari died between Dftmascos and Meoea
in H. 965 (A.D. 1568}.— £rskme» Yol. ii., p. 897.
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TABAKAT-I AEBABf. 235
«iirrend^^ K&mr&n, who was brought into Hum&yiin^s presence
at Parii&Ia. The Emperor, in his natural humanity, was ready
to oTorlook the offences of K&mr&n, but the officers and the
ehiefe of the Ghaghat&i clans, who had suffered many things
through E&mran's hostility, having agreed together, went to
Bam&ytin, and stated that the security of the Ghaghat&f clans
and people depended on the destruction of Mirzd E&mr&n, for
they had repeatedly experienced the effects of his hostility.
Himayun had no escape but by consenting that E&mr&n should
ke blinded. ^Ali Dost Barbegi, Saiyid Muhammad Bikna and
Ghol&m ^Ali 8hash-angt$sht (the six-fingered) deprived Mini
£4mr&n of sight with a lancet.^ The date of this event has
been anticipated a little. Afterwards Mirz& K&mr&n obtained
permission to make the pilgrimage, and being furnished with all
that he could require for the journey, he set out. He arrived
at Mecca, and there died.'
Eumi&yun, having reached the foot of the fort of Boht&s,
determined upon the conquest of Kashmir. It was represented
to him that a zaminddr named Bir&na had a place in the hills
60 strong that none of the Sult&ns had been able to subdue it,
and that he might protect the road and prevent the passage into
Kashmir, so that the conquest would be difficult. But Humdydn'^s
judgment did not acquiesce in these objections, and he marched
onwards. At this time the news arrived of the march of [Sultdn]
Salim Kh&n Afgh&n from Hindustdn to the Panj&b, and it caused
gi^t discontent in the army. When the time for departure
^ved, those officers and amirs who were adverse to the Kashmir
expedition went off all at once to K&bul. Upon the Emperor
discovering that no one &voured the campaign in Kashmir, he
^turned towards K&bul. Grossing the Indus, he gave directions
for rebuilding the fort of Bikr&m (Pesh&war), and as his men
laboured heartily in the work it was soon accomplished. Sikandar
Kh&u Uzbek was appointed governor of the fort. Upon Humd-
' See mpr^ p. 147.
' Four years after, in h. 964 (5di October, 1557 a.d.).— EiBkixie, toI. ii., p. 419.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
236 NIZAHXI^D DIN AHMAD.
ytin's reaching E&bul, Prince Akbar set ont for Ghaznin, and
Ehw&ja Jal&lu-d din Mahmtid and a party of nobles proceeded
thither in attendance upon him.
After a time the intelligence came from India of the death of
[Sult&n] Salim Kh&n, and of dissensions among the A%h&nB.
Some designing persons had informed His Majesty that Bair&m
Elh&n entertained hostile intentions, so Hum&ydn proceeded in
force to Kandah&r [which had been long held by Bair&m Kh&nJ.
The latter came forth to meet Ham&yun with due ceremony, and
showed every mark of fealty and obedience. When Hum4y6n
returned he appointed Mun'im Ehfin to Eandah&r. But Mnn'im
Eh&n remonstrated, and said that an expedition to Hindustfin was
resolved upon, and if the chief men were offended and alienated,
disaffecticm would arise in the army. After the conquest of
Hindust&n that course might be pursued which the necessities of
the time might require. So the government of Kandah&r was
confirmed to Bair&m Eh&n, and that of Zamin-d&war^ to
Bah4dur Kh&n, brother of 'All Kuli Kh&n Sist&ni. The great
camp then returned to K&bul, and the army was employed in
preparing for the invasion of India.
One day when Hum&ydn was riding about and hunting, he
observed that as his mind was dwelling upon the invasion of
India, he would ask the names of the first three persons he met,
and would take them as auguries of the result. The first person
they encountered, upon being asked, said, that his name was
Daulat Khw&ja. A little ftirther on they met another villager,
who said his name was Mur&d Khw&ja. On this His Majesty
observed how excellent it would be if the third person'^s name
should prove to be Sa^&dat Khw&ja. At a short distance they met
the third man, and his name really turned out to be Sa^&dat
Khw&ja.' All the king's companions were greatly surprised and
impressed with this result, and became sanguine of victory in
Hindust&n.^
^ It WM taken away from Tardi Beg.— Ertkine, vol. ii., p. 508.
2 The three names ngoifj j9ra^>erity, wish, tuceeu.
3 This same story is told by Ehondamir, who died twenty yean before this
See nq^ p. 118.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEAT-I AEBABT. 237
In Zi-1 hrija, 961, (November, 1653), the Emperor began
his march. When the army encamped at Pesh&war, Bair&m
Ehdn, according to orders, came np from Kandah&r, and the
royal standards passed oyer the riyer Indus. Bair&m Kh&n,
Khizr Khw&ja Eh&n, Tardi Beg Eh&n, Iskandar Sult&n, and
some other nobles, went on in advance. T&tfir Kh&n K&si, the
goremor of Boht&s, although the fort had been strengthened,
made no resistance, and fled. But ^dam Ghakar, although he
owed service, did not join the army. Hum&ydn continued his
march towards L&hore, and when the Afghans of that city be-
came aware of the near advance of his army, they took to flight.
He entered Lahore^ without opposition, and then sent on the
nobles in command of the advance to J&landar and Sirhind.
The districts of the Panj&b, Sirhind, and Hiss&r all came with-
out a straggle into the hands of the Chaghat&i forces.
A body of A%h&ns having assembled at Dfp&lpur, under the
leadership of Shahb&E Eh&n and Nasir Eh&n Afgh&n, the Emperor
sent Mir Abu-1 Ma'ali and 'AH Eull Sist&ni< to disperse them.
The A%h&ns were defeated, and their baggage and their wives and
&milies became the prey of the victors.
Sikandar Afgh&n, who held possession of Dehli, sent 30,000 men
under T&t&r Kh&n and Haibat Eh&n to attack the advanced forces
in Sirhind. ' The Chaghat&i forces concentrated at J&landar, and
for all the numbers of the enemy and their own paucity they were
ready to fight. They advanced and crossed the Sutlej. Towards
the close of day the Afgh&ns became aware of their transit, and
marched forth to give battle. Notwithstanding the strength of
the enemy, the Chaghat&i chiefs determined to fight, and as the
sun went down a great battle began. The Afgh&ns began the
battle with their archers, but as it was getting dark the arrows
took little effect on the Mughals, but the Afgh&ns being greatly
annoyed by the fire (dtaahi) threw themselves into a neighbour-
ing village. As most of the houses in the villages of Hindust&n
1 2 Babi'u-B s&nl, 962 h.; 23rd February, 1555 a.d.
* The <*Kh&ii-zain6n" of Akbar*8 reign. The HS. calli him <<SiBt&nf/' bat it
Bhonldbe''Shaibiait"
Digitized by VjOOQIC
238 KIZAHU-D DrN AHICAD.
are thatched, a fire broke out, and lighting up the field of battle
the [Mughal] archers came out and plied their weapons heartily
by the light of the burning village. The enemy, in the glare of
the fire, presented a fine mark for their shafts, and being unable
to endure longer took to flight. A great victory was gained,
and elephants and much spoil fell into the hands of the yictors.
When the news of the victory reached L&hore, the Emperor was
greatly delighted, and showed great honour to his generals. All
the Panj£b, Sirhiud, and Hiss&r Firozah were now in his posses-
sion, and some of the dependencies of Dehli also were in the
hands of the Mughals.
On hearing of this defeat, [Sult&n] Sikandar Afgh&n marched
forth to take his revenge, with 80,000 horsemen and elephants
and artillery. He marched to Sirhind, and there he entrenched
and fortified his camp. The Ghaghat&i generals strengthened
the fortifications of Sirhind, and making a good show of resist-
ance, they wrote letters to Hum&yun for reinforcements. He
thereupon sent Prince Akbar towards Sirhind, and as he ap-
proached the generals came forth to meet him. The forces were
drawn out in array with the greatest show against the enemy,
who was four times more numerous than the Muo:hals. For
some days the daring spirits in both armies challenged each other
to combat and displayed their valour, till at length the vanguard
of Prince Akbar was drawn up for battle. A second division,
under Bairam Kh&n Kh&n-Kh&n4n, on the one side ; and on
the other a third division with Iskandar Kh&n, 'Abdu-Ua Eh&n
Uzbek, Sh&h Abil4 Ma'&li,'A]I Kuli Kh&n, and Bah&dur £h&n.
Then they attacked the enemy. In the engagement all the nobles
exhibited dauntless courage and the most determined resolution.
The Afgh&ns, 100,000 in number, were defeated, being inferior
in courage, and [Sult&n] Sikandar fled. The victors pursued
the enemy and put many of them to death ; and having secured
an enormous booty, returned triumphant to wait upon the
Emperor and congratulate him. Under his orders a despatch of
the victory was drawn, in which the honour of the victory "^
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT.I AKBABI. 239
ascribed to Prince Akbar, and this was circulated in all direc-
tions.^
Sikandar £h&n Uzbek was then sent on to Dehli, and the
lojal camp was moved to S&m4na. A body of Afgh&ns in
Dehli made their escape in hot haste, and Sikandar Uzbek
entered and occnpied the city. Mir Abd-1 Ma^&li was sent to
L&kore to keep in check [Sult&n] Sikandar, who had fled into
the Siwalik mountains. In the month of Bamaz&n the Emperor
entered Dehli, and once more the khutba was read and the coins
were stamped with his name in the territories of Hinddst&n.
The chiefs who had taken part in the campaign were most liberally
rewarded, and each one was made the ruler of a province. The
remainder of this year was spent in ease and enjoyment.
Ab6-I Ma'*&Ii, who had been sent to oppose [Sultin] Sikandar,
treated the nobles who had been appointed to support him very un-
eeremoniously, interfering with their territories and appropriating
their treasure. So Sikandar daily grew stronger. This came to
the knowledge of the Emperor, who immediately sent Bair&m
Ehdn in attendance upon Prince Akbar as his atdlik or governor,
to pat an end to Sikandar's operations. Sh&h Abd-l Ma'&Ii was
ordered to proceed to Hiss&r Firozah.
At this time a person named Eambar Diw&na had collected
roand him a body of supporters in the Do&b and Sambal, and
had taken and plundered Bay&na. Unquiet and adventurous
men gathered about him from all quarters. '^Ali Kuli £h&n
Sistani was sent against him, upon which he shut himself up
in the fortress of Bad&un. In the course of a few days 'Ali
£ali Eh&n took the fort, captured Kambar Diw&na, put him
to death, and sent his head to the Emperor.
But now the most extraordinary event occurred. On the 8th
Rabfu*! awwal,' at sunset, the Emperor ascended to the roof of
the library, and there stood for a short time. As he was
X Ahmad Yftdgftr, whom hiBtorj of the reign of Hnm&Ttin is generally copied
▼erbatim from this work, here makes a slight Tariation which is given, tuprH p. 68.
* Thf JHrikh-i StUdtSn-i AJdgham gives the date 7 Z(-l hijja, 965 h.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
240 KIZAMtr-D Dm AHMAD.
descending, the muazsnn cried aloud the summons to prayer, and
he reverently sat down on the second step. When he vrss
getting up again his foot slipped, and he fell from the stairs to
the ground. The people in attendance were greatly shocked^
and the Emperor was taken up senseless and carried into the
palace. After a short time he rallied and spake. The Court
physicians exerted all their powers, but in vain. Next day he
grew worse, and his case was beyond medical help. Shaikh Jfili
was sent to the Panjiib to summon Prince Akbar. On the 15th
Babi u-1 awwal, 963 h. (24th January, 1556), at the setting of
the sun, he left this world for Paradise. The date of his death
is given in the line, "Sumdi/itn bdd%hdh az ham uftM!^^
He reigned for more than twenty-five years, and he was fifty-
one years old. His angelic character* was adorned with every
manly virtue, and in courage and heroism he excelled all the
princes of the time. All the wealth of Hindust&n would not have
sufficed to maintain his generosity. In the sciences of astrology
and mathematics he was unrivalled. He made good verses, and
all the learned and great and good of the time were admitted to
his society and passed the night in his company. Great decorum
was observed in his receptions, and all learned discussions were
conducted in the most orderly manner. The light of favour
shone upon men of ability and worth during his reign. Such
was his clemency that he repeatedly pardoned the crimes of
Mirza K4mr&n and the Ghaghat&i nobles, when they were taken
prisoners and were in his power. He was particular about his
ablutions (wazH)^ and never allowed the name of God to pass
from his tongue until he had performed them. One day he
called Mir 'Abdu-1 Hai, the Bodar or chief judge, by the name
of 'Abdal. But when he had gone through his ablutions he
apologized, and said that as Sai was a name of the Almighty
he was unable to use that name before performing purification.
Every apparent and conceivable virtue was manifest in him.
May God have mercy on him !
I Ab6-1 Fazl obserres that this makes the date one year less than it onght to be.—
AkfMfT'iM.may toL i., p. 442.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEXT-I AXBABF. 241
l^aikh Juli, who was sent off to the Panj&b daring His
Majesty's ilbiess, obtained an interview with Prince Akbar at
Eai&nor. He communicated the &ct of the King'^s illness, and
intelligence of his death soon after arrived. After due observance
of the rites of mourning, the nobles who were in the suite of the
Prince, under the leading of Bair4m Kh&n, acknowledged the
succession of the Prince, and so, on the 2nd Babi'u-s sdni, he
ascended the throne of empire at Kal&nor.
SuLTAK Muhammad 'AdalI.
Himun was a shopkeeper (bakkdl) in the town of Bewarf, in
Mew&t. He was afterwards superintendent of the markets and
director-general of the army, but now he rose still higher, and
came to be one of King 'Adali's chief advisers. • • • •
'Adali one day held a Court in the fort of Gw41ior, and nobles
of renown were present. A distribution of j'dgira was being
made, and ^Adali made an order that the country of Kanauj,
which was the j'dgir of Sli&h Muhammad Farmuli, should be
t^en from him and given to Sarmast £h&n Sarbani. When
this was announced, Sikandar Kh&n, son of Sh&h Muhammad,
a young and daring man, cried out fiercely, " Things have come
to this pass that they are taking our jdgirs away from us and
are giving them to this set of Sarbani dog-sellers." His father,
Sh&h Muhammad, was ill, but he forbad his son to utter such
unseemly and harsh expressions. But the son retorted, ^'Sher
Kh&n (Sher Sh&h) once put you in an iron cage and intended
to take your life, but Salim Kh&n interceded for you and was
the means of delivering you from that peril. Now this Sur
&ction is determined upon ruining you, and you do not see it.
These men will not leave you in peace, and why should we
suffer this degradation?" Hereupon Sarmast Kh&n Sarbani,
who was a very tall and powerful man, placed his hand in a false
coaxing way upon the shoulder of Sikandar, and said, ''What
does all this mean, my lad P " intending to make him prisoner.
VOL. T. 16
Digitized by VjOOQIC
242 KIZAMU-B DfN AHMAD.
Bat Sikandar gaessed his object, drew a dagger and inflicted
such a wound npon the shoulder of Sarmast Kh&n that he fell
dead at his feet. He then killed and wounded sereral others.
In the midst of this scene ^Adali got up and ran into the women^B
apartments. Sikandar rushed after him, but 'Adali bolted the
door on the inside, and with difficulty escaped. The nobles of
'Adali \dio were present drew their swords to prevent the escape
of Sikandar, who, raging like a maniac, cut down and killed and
wounded wherever he went. This state of affairs went on for
an hour or two (yak do gari)^ till Ibr&him Kh&n Sur, the
husband of 'Adalfs sister, drew his sword and wounded Sikandar.
Others then fell upon him and despatched him. Daulat Kh&n
Loh&ni killed Sh&h Muhammad Farmuli also with one blow of
his sword.
On the very day of this tragedy it happened that as Mu-
hammad Farmuli was going to wait upon 'Adali he met T&j
Khan Kir&ni, brother of Sulaim&n and 'Im&d Kir&ni, as he was
coming out of the fort of Gwalior, after having taken leave of
the King. They both inquired as to each other's affairs, and T&j
Kh&n said, ^' I am going to retire from this field of strife **
(m'arika) : " come with me, for here all things are changed."
Muhanmiad Farmuli did not acquiesce, but went to pay his visit
to 'Adali, when what we have seen happened,
^When Tdj Khdn fled from Gwalior, he formed designs against
Bengal. 'Adali first sent a force after him, and then marched
against him in person. The hostile forces met near Chhatr&mau,
forty ko8 from Agra and thirty from Kanauj, and T&j Kh&n was
defeated. He fled to Chunar, and on his way he took posses-
sion of several local treasuries belonging to 'Adali, and enriched
himself with their contents. He also seized a troop (halka)
of elephants, one hundred in number, and went and joined
his brothers 'Im&d, Sulaim&n, and Khw&ja fly&s, who held
^ This and some other passages hare been copied by the Tdrfkh-i Ddiuli, and an
given in Vol. IV. pp. 606, 607. This original Yersion of the Tahakdt seems prefer-
able.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 243
Beveral districts on the banks of the Ganges and at Khaw&spdr
T&nda. Open war began, and 'Adali led his army from Gwalior
to the banks of the Ganges, and there fronted his adyersaiy.
One day Himdn told 'Adali that if he wonid give him a troop
{halka) of elephants, he would cross the riyer and take the
ooiirage out of the Kir&ni rebel. 'Adall complied with this
request, and Himun defeated the rebels.
Ibr&him Kh&n, son of Gh&zi Kh&n Stir, had married the
BiRter of 'Adali, and was one of the cousins of Sher Kh&n (Sher
Sh&h). His wife found out that ^Adali intended to put him in
confinement, so he fled from Chun&r, and went to his father Gh&zi
S[h&n, who held the government of Bay&na and Hindun. ''Adali
sent ^f sa Kh&n Ni&zi in pursuit of him, and a fight took place
near K&Ipi, in which 'fsa £hdn was defeated. Ibr&him then
proceeded to Dehli, and caused the khutba to be read in his name.
Afterwards he took possession of Xgra and of several districts.
^Adali, upon hearing of these conquests, marched against Ibr&him.
On reaching the Jumna, Ibr&him Kh&n sent a person to 'Adali,
promising that if 'Adali would send to him B&I Husain Jalw&ni,
Bah&dur Kh&n Sarw&ni, called A'zam Hum&ydn, and some other
great nobles, npon whose assurances of protection he could
depend, he would come in and make his submission. These
nobles were accordingly sent. But Ibrahim won them all over
to his side^ and then declared against 'Adali, who, having no
hope of support, returned to Ghun&r. Ibr&him Kh&n now took
the title of Ibr&him Sh&b, and assumed the insignia of royalty.
About this time also Ahmad Kh&n, another nephew of Sher
Kh&n (Sher Sh&h), who was married to a second sister of
'AdaliX and was one of the territorial amira of the Panj&b,
received the support of Tat&r Kh&n K&nsi, Haibat Kh&n, and
Nasib Kh&n, who^were among the principal nobles of Salim Kh&n's
(Sh&h's) time. ^ Thus supported he assumed the title of '' Sult&n
Sikaudar,'' and leil his forces against Ibr&him. The rival armies
met at the village of Farra, ten ko9 from iigra. Sikandar'^s
army did not exceed 10,000 horse, but Ibr&him had 70,000
Digitized by VjOOQIC
244 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
horse and 200 persons to whom be had given velvet tents,
banners, and kettle-drums. Sikandar offered peace, upon oon-
dition of receiving the government of the Panj&b. But Ibr&hf m
was proud of the great strength and preponderance of his army,
80 he rejected the peaceful overtures of Sikandar, and arrayed
his army for battle. In the end Sikandar was victorious, and
Ibr&him was compelled to fly to Sambal. Sikandar then
became master of Agra and Dehli.
Intelligence now arrived that the Emperor Hum&yun had
marched from E&bul to Hindiist&n, and had taken Lahore ; so
Sikandar gathered his forces and went towards that city. Ibr&him
also collected a new army at Sambal, and went in the direction of
£&lpi. 'Adali now sent Himun, the bakkdl, who was his trasir,
with a large army, and with 500 war-elephants and artillery,
against Agra and Dehli. When Himun reached Kalpi, he
resolved to dispose of Ibrdhim first, and hastened to meet him.
A great battle followed, in which Himun was victorious, and
Ibr&him fled to his father at Bay&na. Himun followed and
invested Bay&na, which he besieged for three months.
Sikandar Kh&n, ruler of Bengal, now raised the standard of
rebellion, and marched with the forces of that country against
Jaunpdr, Kdlpi, and Agra. 'Adali therefore summoned Himun^
who accordingly raised the siege of Bay&na. When he reached
the village of Mand&kar, six ko8 from Agra, Ibrahim came up
and attacked his rear, but he was defeated and again fled to his
father. From thence he went to the country of Bhath, and
fought with the B&jd, B&m Chand, who made him prisoner.
But the Bdja showed him great honour, seated him upou the
throne, and waited upon him as a servant. Here Ibr&him re-
mained until a party of the tribe of Mi&nas,^ who dwelt near
R&isin, being at enmity with B&z Bah&dur, the ruler of M&lwa,
invited Ibr&him to be their ruler. They drew out their forces
against Bdz Bah&dur, and Ibrdhim joined them. Durg&vafci
the Bdni of Garha marched from her own country to support
^ A tribe of Afgb&nfl.— Briggs* Fiiishta, yoI. ii. p. 149.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEJCT-I AEBARr. 245
him. But B&z Bah&dar hearing of this^ sent some persons to
the H&ni, and induced her to relinquish this design and return
home. Upon this defection Ibr&him thought it inexpedient
to tarry longer where he was, so he went to the country of
Orissa, one of the dependencies of the kingdom of Bengal.
Here he remained until the year 975 (1567-8), when Sulaim&n
Kir&nl took possession of Orissa. Upon the faith of solemn
promises he then came to see Sulaim&n, who treacherously caused
him to be slain.
The victorious Himtin continued his march and joined ^Adali.
They fought with Muhammad Eh&n Gauria at the village of
Ghappar-ghatta^ fifteen koa from .^gra, and Muhammad was
killed. Thus victorious ^Adali went to Chun&r, and sent Himun
to ^gra and Dehli to oppose the progress of Hum&ydn. Si-
kandar Kh&n Uzbek,^ Eiy& Kh&n Gang,' and the other nobles
who were in ^gra, abandoned the city, and retreated before him
towards Dehli. ''f sa Khdn marched against Dehli, but being
encountered and defeated by Tardi Beg Elh&n at P&nipat, he
was put to death by the Imperial officers. 'Adali was still at
Chun&r, when Ehizr Eh&n, son of Muhammad Eh&n Gauria,
caused the khutba to be read and coins to be struck under the
title which he had assumed of Sult&n Bah&dur. To avenge his
&ther, he made war upon ''Adali, and put him to death. Thus
terminated the Afgh&n rule, and Hind came under the Imperial
sway. ^Adali reigned for nearly three years.
^ Sikaadar Ehfcn was a descendant of the Uzbek kings, and was a prominent man
in the reign of Akbar. See Blochmann's Ain-i AkbarU toL i p. 36o.
' Kijfc Ekin attained high rank in Akbar's reign, and appears frequently in the
following pagea. See Blochmann's Alu^-i Akbwri^ Yol. i. p. 343.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
246
NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
Ebion of the Ebiperob Jalalu-d DiN Muhammad Akbab.^
Ybabs of thb Ilahi
; OB, Bbigk of
Akbajl* 1
1.
27 Rabl'u-I &kbir.
963 10
or 11 March, 1666 1
2.
9 Jam&da-l awwal, 964
»>
1657
3.
20
066
1668
4.
2 Jiiiii&da.l akhir
966
ff
1669
5.
16
967
ff
1660
6.
24
968
tf
1561
7.
6Bajab
969
91
1562
8.
16 „
970
n
1563
9.
27 „
971
1)
1564
10.
8 Sha'bfin,
972
»t
1565
11.
18 „
973
It
1566
12.
29 „
974
fi
1667
13.
11 Bamaz&n,
976
f)
1668
14.
22 .,
976
yy
1569
15.
2 Sbaww&l,
977
%t
1570
16.
H „
978
)»
1671
17.
26 „
979
n
1672
18.
6 Z14 ka'da,
980
n
1673
19.
^l ^
981
tf
1574
20.
27 „
982
)9
1575
21.
9 ZM hijja,
983
%f
1576
22.
20 „
984
}t
1577
23.
2Miiharrain,
986
})
1678
24.
12. „
987
}}
1579
26.
24 „
988
1580
26.
6 Safar,
989
t1
1681
27.
16 „
990
n
1582
28.
28 „
991
if
1683
29.
8 Babl'u-l awval,
992
It
1684
80.
19
993
ft
1585
81.
29
994
t«
1586
32.
11 Babru-BHM,
996
tt
1587
33.
22
996
It
1588
34.
4 Jum&da-l awwal, 997
It
1589
35.
14
998
yt
1590
86.
24
999
1591
37.
1000
If
1692
38.
17
1001
tt
1593
39.
28
1002
It
1594
40.
9 Rajab
1003
It
1596
41.
20 „
1004
tt
1696
42.
2 Sha'b&n,
1006
tt
1697
43.
13 „
1006
It
1598
44.
23 „
1007
It
1699
45.
4 Ramaz&n,
1008
It
1600
46.
16 „
1009
It
1601
47.
26 ,.
1010
It
1602
48.
6 Shaww&l,
1011
It
1603
49.
17 „
1012
It
1604
60.
28 „
1013
It
1605
Akbar died on the 13 Jum&da-g s&ni,
1014;
13 Oct 1605.
• Thli Table, u far as the 46th year, has been drawn np ttom the jtHar.
nAma of Ab^-l Paal, which is the most accurate of the authoridee and most
eonsUtent with itself, though it oeeaaionally shows a sUffht error, as in the
«th year, w
Akhfr. Tht
at the end a
bioh must have begun
on the 18tl
1. not the l«th of Jainid»4
} TdhakAt and BadAdnf
f 981 and ended on the
so astray at tbe 23nd year, whieh began
Istdayof 98eHUni.
He 18 familiarly called maU/a IfM,
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKXT-I AKBAEr. 247
Shaikh Ahii-1 Fazl, in his great work entitled Akbar-ndmay haa
recorded folly and circumstantially all the events in the life of
Chid's vicegerent, from the day of his birth till the present year,
the thirty-eighth year of the Il&h( era^ and the year 1002 of the
Hijra (1593-^ aj).). But this hnmble servant of the State,
Niz&ma-d din Ahmad Mutasaddi^ having written a history of all
the kings who have raised the banner of sovereignty in Hindust&n,
it is indispensable that he should also write a history of all the
incidents in the life of the Emperor. The greatness of the
theme will probably imbue his mind with ability to perform his
undertaking. The history of this great Emperor must be the
prominent feature in all books, so that there is little need of the
present work, but as I have felt it my duty to write a history of
the Sult&ns of Hindiist&n, it seems right to crown my work with
a relation of the auspicious reign of this great Emperor.
It will be remembered that in the history of the reign of the
late Emperor Hum&yun our narrative had reached the point
where Prince Akbar was sent to the Siwalik hills along with
Bair&m E[h&n Kh&n-kh&n&n, to crush Sikandar Afghan. When
he reached the pargana of Kal&nor, one of the dependencies of
Lahore, the sad intelligence of the death of the Emperor his
&ther was brought to him, and plunged him in the deepest
sorrow. Bair&m Kh&n, commander-in-chief, with the concur-
rence of the nobles and officers, raised His Highness to the throne
in the town of Kal&nor at noon-day of Friday, the 2nd of
Babl'u-s s&ni,^ 963 h., with all due state and ceremony, and
letters of grace and favour were sent to all parts of Hinddst&n.
Rrat year of the Ildhi.
The Bdhi is a true solar year beginning with the Nau-roz!^
The first year of this auspicious era corresponded with Monday,
the 27th Babru-1 &khir, 963 h. (10 March, 1556 a.d.).
> The M88. luiTe "Babi'u-l awwal;" bat this is inoonnstent with the date in
page 241 mprd^ and is opposed to aU the other authoritieB.
* The Penian solar months are used in this era.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
248 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
Among the prominent events of the early days of the reign
yras the rebellion of Sh&h Abn-1 Ma^&II. This young man was
a descendant of the Saiyids of Turmuz, and was remarkable both
for his beauty and intelligence. The late king had a great
partiality for him, and this fostered his pride so that pre-
sumptuous ideas got the mastery over him, and his conduct was
marked by some unseemly actions. The Kh&n-khan&n arrested
him, and was about to execute him ; but the young Emperor was
mercifully disposed, and was unwilling that the beginning of his
reign should be stained with the execution of a descendant of
the Saiyids before any crime had been proved against him. So
he placed him in the custody of Fahlaw&n Kal-gaz kotwal^ and
sent him to Lahore. Abu-1 Ma'&li escaped from custody,^ and
the pahlawdn^ in shame for his fault, committed suicide.
So long as Sikandar Afgh&n was in the field, the officers of
the Emperor were unable to take any measures for the capture
of the fugitive, but sent all their regular forces against Sikandar.
The Imperial forces encountered the Afgh&ns near the Siw&Iik
mountains, and gained a victory which elicited gracious marks
of approval from the Emperor.'^ Sikandar took refuge in the
mountains and jungles, and the Imperial forces were engaged for
six months in hunting him about and endeavouring to capture
him. £aj& B&m Chand,' S&j& of Nagarkot, was the moat re-
nowned of all the r&jds of the hills, and he came and made his
submission. In consequence of the heavy rains, His Highness
left these parts, and went to J&landhar, where he stayed for five
months.
Tardi Beg Kh&n, who was one of the most famous of the
nobles of Humdyun's reign, and held an exalted place in that
> He fled to the country of the Gakhan, and there oolleoting tn armj, he inTaded
Kashmir, hut was defeated. Obliged to leave the Qakhar country, he went and hid
at Dip&lpt&r, bat was diflcoTered, and sent a prisoner to the fort of fiaj&na. — Badfc6Bl,
Tol. ii. p. 10.
** The Emperor went as far as Damhari, and Bair&m Ehfin commanded. The to
lasted three months. — Akbar^ndma^ yoI. ii. p. 23. Bad&6n(, Tol. ii. p. 12.
* Ah6-1 Faal and Firishta call him " Dharm Chand ; *' Bad&Aiii <* fiftm Chaad."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 249
monarch'^s estimation, in the same week that the Emperor died,
caused the khutba to be read in Dehli in the name of the Emperor
Akbar. He also, with the help of Khw&ja Sult&n ^Ali, wazir
and mir-munahiy who was also mir-i 'arz and mir-i mdl, kept
under control the affairs of Dehli, and of Mew&t and other
parganas which had bat lately been brought under royal authority.
He sent Mirz& Abu-1 £&sim, son of Prince K&mr&n, along with
the effects and establishments and war-elephants of the late
Emperor, to his successor, the Emperor Akbar.
When Hum&yun marched to Hindust&n, he consigned the
government of £&bul and Ghaznl to Mun^im £hdn, one of his
chief nobles, and he also made him guardian (atdlik) of his son,
Mirz& Muhammad Hakim. He also left there all his ladies.
The city of Kandahdr and its dependent territories were the
jagir of Bair&m Khfin Kh&n-kh&n&n. By the kindness of His
Majesty the government of Badakhsh&n was consigned to Mirz&
Sulaim&n, sou of Eh&n Mirzd, son of Sult&n Mahmtid, son of
Mirza Snlt&n Abti Sa'id Ourg&n. When the intelligence of the
facts (of the death) of Hum&ytin reached Mirz& Sulaim&n,
ambitious designs took hold of him, and, with his son Mirzd
Ibr&him, he marched against X&bul, and laid siege to it. MunHm
Elh&n wrote a full report of all the facts of the matter, and sent
it to the Emperor. But before his despatch arrived, Akbar
had sent Muhammad Kuli Birl&s, and some other nobles, to
E&bul, to fetch the ladies who had been left there. When
the news of the siege of £&bul arrived, an imperative farmdn
was issued, directing these nobles to make all haste to K&bul,
and to raise the siege. When these nobles passed the Mil&b
(Indus), Mirz& Sulaim&n saw that he could effect nothing by
hostile means, so he employed as an intermediary £azi Kh&n
Badakhshi, who was one of his confidential nobles, and one of the
holy men of the time, to inform Mun'im £h&n that if his name
were recited in the khuiba, he would take his departure. Mun*im
Slh£n knew that the garrison of the fort was suffering from the
protracted siege, so he consented that the name of Mirz& Sulaim&n
Digitized by VjOOQIC
250 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
Bhoald be mentioned in the list of the titles (zail i alkdh) of His
Majesty the Emperor. When Mirza Sulaimdn was informed of
this concession, he immediately departed for Badakhsh£n.
Soon after the accession of the Emperor, 'Ali Kuli Eh&n^
received the title of Khdn-zamdn and marched towards Sambal
to repress Sh&di Kh&n Afgh&n, one of the nobles of Sultdn
Muhammad 'Adali. When he reached the banks of the Bahab,
he sent some of his men over the river with 2000 or 3000 horse
to reconnoitre the enemy. This detachment crossed the river
without care and circumspection, and Sh&di Kh&n, perceiving his
opportunity, suddenly fell upon them. Many of Eh&n-zam&n's
men were killed, and many were drowned in the river. When
the Kh&n received intelligence of this, he consulted with the
nobles who were with him, such as ♦ ♦ ♦, upon the propriety of
crossing the river to avenge this disaster. Just at this juncture,
letters arrived from Tardi Beg Khin and other nobles who were
in Dehli,' stating that Himdn, the vaUil of Muhammad Khfin
'^dali, had approached Dehli with a large force and many
elephants, intent upon battle, and that they should bring up
their forces with all possible speed. Kh&n-zam&n and all the
faithful and prudent nobles marched off instantly towards Dehli ;
but before they arrived, Tardi Beg Eh&n had been defeated.
This matter has been recorded among the incidents of the reign
of Sult&n ^Adali, and there is no need to repeat it here.
When Himun approached iigra, Sikaudar Kh&n Uzbek, the
governor of that city, was obliged to evacuate the place and join
Tardi Beg Kh&n. 'Abdu-Ua Uzbek, L&l Sult&n Badakhshi, 'All
Euli Andarabi, Mirak Kh&n Kol&bi, Haidar Muhammad Akhta«
begi, and Mirz& Kuli Beg Khdn assembled. Maul&n& Pir
Muhammad Shirwdni also came to Tardi Beg on a mission from
Bair&m Khdn. These all brought reinforcements with them.
As Himun drew near to Dehli, the great nobles led their forces
1 *Ali Enli Kh&n was an Uzbek, and bod of Haidar Snltin Shaibiinf, a ataancfa
adherent of Hum&y&n.
' Akbar had made him gotemor of Dehli. — Faizf Sirhindi.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKJCT-I AKBABr. 251
oat of the city, and marahalled them in the field in sight of
the enemy. Sikandar Kh&n and 'Abda-Ua Eh&n Uzbek and
L&l Sult&n Badakhshi, who were on the right wing, defeated
the forces opposed to them. Then Himuu, with a reserve which
he had and some fierce elephants, made an attack apon the
Mnghals, and Tardi Beg Eh&n, being anable to repel this assault,
was obliged to retreat. But although Himiin had thus, by his
tactics and artifice, prevailed over Tardi Beg Eh&n, he did not
think of pursuing him. That portion of the enemy's army
which had been defeated, finding themselves, to their surprise,
unmolested, returned to the scene of action, and then learned
that Tardi Beg Eh&n had been discomfited and put to flight.
Himun then occupied Dehli, and Tardi Beg Kh&n and the other
nobles proceeded to the Emperor. Kh&n-zam&n joined them at
the town of Sirhind.
The Emperor and his followers were engaged at J&landhar
in counteracting the efforts of Sult&n Sikandar. When the
intelligence of this disaster reached him, be appointed Ehw&ja
Ehizr Kh&n, who belonged to the lineage of the Mughal Sult&ns,
and had married Gulbadan Begam, the aunt of the Emperor, to
oppose Sult&n Sikandar, while he himself marched to Dehll.
Upon his reaching the town of Sirhind, the defeated nobles
waited upon him. But Ehdn-khandn, who had the general
direction of state affairs, had deemed it desirable to destroy
Tardi Beg Eh&n. So he had summoned ^ him to his tent, and
had caused him to be put to death.' He had also placed in
confinement Ehw&ja Sult&n 'Ali and the Mir Mumhi and the
Khanjar-heg of Tardi Eh&n. When the royal tents were pitched,
^ The word lued is " taihid," but Ab6-I Fazl says it was a friendly inTitation.
' There had been a long standing quarrel, aggravated by sectarian bitterness, be-
tween Bair&m Khfin and Tardi Beg. Bad&6ni (ii. 14) says that Bair&m Kh&n got
a kind of permission from the Emperor to put TardS Beg to death. Abd-l Fazl and
Firishta, however, show that he had some difficulty in justifying the act. Firishta
•tates that ** he understood from the best informed men of the times, that had Tardi
Beg Kh&n not been executed by way of example, such was the condition of the
Mughal army and the general feeling of those foreigners, that the old scene of Sher
8h&h would have been acted over again."~Brigg8, toI. iL p. 186.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
252 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
'All Kuli Kh&n and * * * were sent forward with the advanced
forces, and the Emperor followed to confront the enemy.
Himdn had greatly vaunted his achievements at Dehli, and
had taken to himself the title of B&ja Bikram&jit.^ He had
gathered under his command a mighty force, and had fifteen
hundred^ war-elephants. With these he hastened to meet the
Imperial army. He had sent on his artillery^ in advance, and a
detachment of the Emperor's army, which had gone forward, fell
in with the artillery at P&nipat, and took it at the point of the
sword. When Himun was informed of this disaster, he was
much depressed, but he promised his officers an increase of their
emoluments, and gave to each one an elephant on which to ride
and exhibit his devotion. He himself mounted an elephant
named Sawd (wind), and went forth with scowling brow to meet
his royal adversary.
On the morning of Friday, [2nd] Muharram, 964 h.
(5 November, 1656), the intelligence of his march was brought
in from the advanced guard, and the generals marshalled their
forces to receive the attack. Husain Kuli Beg and ♦ ♦ * •
other brave officers fought bravely, and defeated their adver-
saries. Himun then advanced with his elephants, and made such
a determined charge on the Imperial army that the left wing
was shaken.^ But by the exertions of the brave archers and by
resolute use of spear and sword, firmness was restored. Himun
1 The MS. of the E. I. Lih., which often contaioB a word or two more than the
other MSS. which have heen used, here observes parenthetically, "This Bikramfrjit
was a riLJ&, who held dominion over the greater part of HindiUt&n, and the Hindita
helieye that one thousand six hundred years have passed since the time of liia
ascendancy."
^ ^Ifi augments the number to <* nearly three thousand, a number that for many a
long year had not been gathered together in India," and adds that more than
a thousand were captured. Abd-1 Fazl (ii. p. 50) and Bad&dni (iL p. 16} say that
1500 were captured.
' «< Which was obtained fr«m Turkey: m mamdiik-i Mpi niikdn ml-^Utf."—
Faizi BirhindL
* According to Ab64 Faal, Himfin diridied his army into three diTisionfl. H«
himself commanded the centre^ which was oompoeed of 500 elephants and 20,e00
Afgh6n and B&jp6t horse.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAIAT.I AKBAKr. 253
then drew o£F his forces^ and made an assault upon the centre,
which was under the command of Kh&n-zamfin. He led all
his elephants against the Ehdn'^s men, who received him with
showers of arrows. An arrow pierced the eye of Himtin, and
came out at the back of his head. When those who were
fighting under him saw his condition, their hands were paralyzed,
and they broke. The Imperial forces pursued them, and cut
many to pieces.
The elephant on which Him6n was riding, when Himun fell
wounded in the hotcda and its driver was killed,^ made off
towards the jungle. It so happened that Sh&h Kuli Kh&n fell
in with this elephant, and made his own driver mount it. The
driver then perceived that there was a man lying wounded in
the hotvda^ and upon examination this person proved to be
Him6n himself. Sh&h Euli Eh&n, fully alive to the importance
of his discovery, drove the elephant, along with several others
which had been captured in the field, to the presence of the
Emperor. Bair&m Kh&n Kh&n-khan&n then put Himun to
death with his own hand.^
Sikandar Eh&n Uzbek, according to orders, pursued the fugi-
tives to Dehli, and sent many of them to hell. Next day the
army marched from P&nipat, and without halting anywhere went
straight to Dehli. All the inhabitants of the city of every
degree came forth to give His Majesty a suitable reception, and to
conduct him with due honour into the city. He remained there
one month. Intelligence was brought in that all the children
and dependents of Himun, with his treasures and effects, were
1 Ab&-1 Fazl states that Himtln's own driTer, in fear of his life, betrayed his
master. — Akbar-ndma^ Tol. ii. p. 49.
3 Bad&&nl, Ab<i-1 Fazl and Faizl all state that Bair&m Eh&n killed Ulmtl after
hftTtng failed to induce the Emperor to do so. Bair&m Eh&n said, according to
Bad&(ini, " • This is yonr first war {gkazd)^ prove yonr sword on this infidel, for it will
be a meritorioos deed.' Akbar replied, ' He is now no better than a dead man,
how can I strike him ? If he had sense and strength, I would try my sword.' Then,
in the presenee of them all, the Kh&n, as a warrior of the faith, cut him down with
his sword." HimiS's head was sent to E&bul, and his body to Dehli, to bo exposed
OTcr the gates. — Akbar-ndma, toI. ii. p. 61 ; Badfe6nf, vol. ii. p. 16 ; Tdrikh^i
Alfi; AkboT'tidma of Faizi Sirhindi. See also ntprd, p. 65.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
254 KIZAMU-D BIN AHlf AB.
in Mew&t ; so Maul&n& Fir Muhammad Shlrw&ni was sent
thither. He captared all the persons, and took possession of all
the treasures and valuables, and conducted them to the foot of
the throne.^
Second year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Tuesday, the
9th Jum&da-l awwal, 964 h. (10 March, 1557). Intelligence
arrived that Khlzr Kh&n Khw&ja^ had been defeated^ by Si-
kandar Afghan ; the Emperor therefore set out for Lahore, to
oppose the victor. When he reached J&landhar, Sikandar fell
back to the Siw&lik hills, and the royal forces pursued him to
Disawa/ and from thence to Damhari. It now became obvious
that Sikandar meant to retreat, and had no intention of fighting.
A party of distinguished nobles was sent in pursuit, and by
rapid marches came up to the camp of Sikandar. He then shot
himself up in the fort of Mankot.^ The loiperial army followed,
and laid siege to the fort. Day by day the batteries were
advanced, and the garrison was closely pressed.
At this time Her Highness Mariam Makdni, mother of the
Emperor, with other royal ladies, arrived in Hindust4n from
K&bul, to the great satisfaction of the Emperor. Muhammad
Kuli Birl&s, Shamsu-d din Muhammad Eh&n Atka, and the
other great nobles who had been sent to assist Mun'im Kh4n at
Kdbul against Mirz& Sulaim&n, at the same time returned to
^ Alfi adds that many Afghans were killed, and that Mew&t was annexed to the
Imperial dominions.
* Governor of Lahore.— T. Alfi.
* At the village of Chamiy&ri, twenty kon from Lahore. — Badddnf, toI. ii. p. 17.
According to AhCk-l Fuzl, it was only an advanced force of 2000 men that was
defeated. But still the Emperor was informed by all who came from the Panj&b
that the whole force of the £mpire would be required to put down Sikandar. —
Akbar-ndmoy vol. ii. p. 68.
* ^'Diwaja '* in some copies. .BadCifinf says (vol ii.p. 18) *< DSaawa and DihmSxl"
The Akbar-ndma (vol. ii. p. 61) " Dehsuna and Damhari.*'
B It consists of four strong towers, built by (Sult&n) Salim Kh&n AfghCoi, when lie
warred against the Gbakars."— JtAr^ar-ftdma^ p. 62 ; T. Alfi\ Akbar^dmm of FaisL
See tuprd, Vol IV. p. 494.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AEBAEr. 235
Hindustan to the service of their roaster. When the ladies
were about the distance of a stage from the Imperial camp, the
Emperor left Bair&m Khdn in command of the army, and went
forth to meet them, hia heart receiving great comfort from the
reunion.
After a prolonged siege,^ Sikandar Afgh&n, being hard pressed,
requested that some confidential noble might be sent in to
arrange terms with him.' The Emperor commissioned Atka
Kh&n to perform this duty. When he entered the fortress,
Sikandar addressed him in very deprecatory terms, confessing
that he had been very bold and presumptuous, and that he knew
he had no chance in resistance. He begged that he might be
permitted to retire to Bengal, promising to remain faithful in his
allegiance, and offering to leave his son as a hostage. Atka
Kh&n returned, and reported these proposals, through Pir Mu-
hammad Kh&n, to the Kh&n-kh&n&n, and upon his communicating
them to the Emperor, they were graciously approved. Sikandar
accordingly sent his son, 'Abdu-r Rahman, along with Gh&zi
Kh&n Sur, and he also sent with them several war-elephants
and various articles of tribute. So on the 27th Bamaz&n, 964,
the fort was surrendered to the royal forces.^ On the 2nd
Shaww&l the army marched on its return towards Lahore. After
four months and fourteen days the army marclied from Lahore
on its return to Dehli.
One day, while the army was lying before M&nkot, His
Majesty had two elephants, named respectively Fatuhi and
Bakhsh&, brought out to fight for his amusement; and as the
animals pressed each other, they approached very close to the
tent of £h&n-kh&n&n. It so happened that the Kh&n was ill,
1 Kearlj six months, and after mounds {aarkobs) and batteries had been brought
dose up. — Alp. Bad4(ini adds (toI. ii. p. 18) that grain had become Tory scarce in
the for^ and that desertions dail j took place.
* AbU-l Fazl and Faizi say that the defeat and death of 'Adali had its effect in
Iffinging about the surrender. — Akbar^ndma^ vol. ii. pp. 72-73. See »uprd^ p. 245.
* Sikandar receiyed the districts of Bihar and Kharld mjagir. He died two
yean later. — Akbar'Wlmay toI. IL p. 73.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
256 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
and confined to his bed with boils. The suspicion came into his
mind that the elephants were perhaps directed thither by the
royal servants, and this idea was encouraged by the people who
were around him. So he sent a person to the Emperor to inquire
what fault his detractors had imputed to him, that he should
have been subjected to this mark of the royal displeasure.^ After
returning to Lahore Khan-kh&n&n still harped upon this matter;
and sending for Shamsu-d din Muhammad Atka, he told him
his suspicion, that this unkind action of His Majesty had been
instigated by him. When Atka Eh&n heard this charge, he
was much distressed; so he took all his sons with him to the
house of £h&n-kh&n&n, and by taking an oath upon the Kur£n
removed his suspicions.^
After four months and fourteen days, the army marched' from
Lahore to Dehli. Upon reaching J&landbar a halt was made,
and Khdn-kh&nan was married to Sult&n Begam, daughter of
Mirz4 Nuru-d din, who was a son of the sister of the late Emperor
Hum&yun. The Emperor Huradyun, during his lifetime, had
promised her to the Kh&n-kh&n&n, and now, under the orders of
the Emperor Akbar, the union was accomplished. Kh&n-kh&n&n
gave a splendid banquet, to which he invited His Majesty, who
was graciously pleased to honour it with his presence. The
Kh&n was profuse in his generosity on the occasion. At the
beginning of the third year of the Il&hi, the army recommenced
its march for Dehli.
Third year of the Beign.
The beginning of this year coincided with Tuesday, 20ih
Jum&da-l awwal, 965 h. (10th March, 1558), and on the 25th
Jum&da-s s&ni His Majesty arrived at Dehli. He then turned
1 According to Abd-1 Fazl, Bair&m made his commnnicatioii through M&ham Anka
{Akbar-ndinay ToL IL p. 74). " The Emperor assured him that it was accidental." —
' This paragraph is omitted in one MS., but the T, Alfl tells the story in afxict
agreement with this.
' On the 15th Safar, 965 m—Akbar-ndma, yoL ii. p. 79.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAKf. 267
hia attention to the concerns of his subjects and army, and
jostice and mercy held a prominent place in his councils. The
Kh&n-khan&n, in concert with the ministers and nobles of the
State, used to attend twice a week in the dtwdn-khdnahy and
transact business under the directions and commands of His
Majesty.
[InfatiKUion of KMn-zamdn for one of the royal troopers.']
In this year Mus&hib Eh&n, son of Khw&ja Eal&n Beg, one
of the principal nobles of the late Emperor, was put to death by
order of the Kh&n-kh&n&n, because he had shown great ill-feeling
and malice towards the Ehdn.
One day in this year His Majesty went out riding on an
elephant called Lakhna, and as he was going along, the animal
mshed after another elephant. It so happened that he came to
a ditch into which he stumbled, and the Emperor was thrown
from his seat on the neck of the animal, but his foot was caught
in the rope ^ which was tied round the beast's neck. The man
who was riding behind him came to the ground, but His Majesty
dung to the rope until a number of persons collected and
released his foot. The elephant extricated himself by his own
strength, and His Majesty again mounted him and returned
home. After the expiration of six months the Emperor em-
barked in a boat and fell down to Agra, where he arrived on
the 17th Muharram, 966 h. (30th Oct., 1558), in the third year
of the Il&hi.«
One of the most important incidents of this year was that
relating to Maul&n& Pir Muhammad Shirw&nl. The Pir was
the general manager {tcakil-i mullah) of the Kh&n-kh&n&n,' and
» Which in Hindi they call " kawdna^—Akbar-ndmat toI. iL p. 90. It is the
bsnd in which the driver fixes his feet.
* "He took up his residence in the citadel {ark) of the city which was called
B&dal-garh." — Akbar-ndma, toI. ii. p. 95.
' Bad&6ni relates that the Eh&n-kh&n&n and Pir Muhammad were one day out
hunting together, and that the former heing hungry, the Pfr entertained kim and his
suite. To the great astonishment of the Kh&n, IMr Muhammnd's hunting equipage
supplied thirty (three P) hundred gohlets of sherhet and eight hundred dishes of .
food.— Bod&dni, yoL ii. p. 26.
TOL. T. 17
Digitized by VjOOQIC
258 KIZAMir-D DFN AHtf AD.
all the business of the State passed through his hands. He was
the person to whom the nobles and officers had to make their
applications, and of the many, high and low, who attended at
his door, he admitted hardly any one. His temper now became
BO arrogant and perverted that for some days he would not come
out of his house. The £h&n-kh&nan went to call upon him as
upon a sick person. The slave asked the £h4n-kh&n&n to wait
until he had made known his wish to the Pir. This greatly
incensed the Kh&u-kh&n&n. When Pir Muhammad was in-
formed of what had passed, he rushed out, and made many
apologies to the Kh&n-kh&n&n, who told him how the slave had
refused him admission. The Pir made the excuse that the slave
did not know him. Kh&n-kh&n&n asked him how he knew what
the slave thought. But for all that had passed, when the Kh£n-
kh&n&n went in, his servants were not permitted to attend him,
excepting Tahir Muhammad Sult&n, Mir-i fardghat^ who made
his way in to look after his master. The Khan-kh&n&n sat for a
while ; but when he came out, he thought over this conduct of Pir
Muhammad. After a few days he sent Ehw&ja Aminu-d daala
Mahmdd, subsequently Khw&ja-i Jah&n, Mir 'Abdu-Ua Bakhshi,
Khwaja Muhammad Husain Bakhshi, and several other of his fol-
lowers, to Pir Muhammad Khan, with this message: *' Formerly
you were a poor student, and came to £andah&r in a needy,
forlorn condition ; but I perceived some signs of excellence in yon,
and remembered some old services. I therefore advanced you to
the dignity of Khan and Sult&n. But your nature is unable to
bear this great advancement, and the bad points in your cha-
racter get the mastery of you. I therefore think it advisable
to deprive you for a time of royal distinctions and dignity, so that
you may come to your proper senses. Ton must return your
banner, kettle-drum, and all other marks of honour." So all
signs of dignity were immediately taken away from him, and
he became simple Pir Muhammad. Some days afterwards he
was taken to the fort of Bayana, under Kh&n-kh&n&n's orders,
and fi*om thence was sent to Mecca; but he proceeded to Gujar^,
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEXT-I AKBABn 259
and there remained until after the fall of Bairdoi Kh&n, when
he returned to Qourt.
The o£See of mkil to Kh&n-khdn&n, which was thus taken
from Fir Muhammad, was given to H&ji Muhammad Sist&ni,
vho was one of the Kh&n's servants. At this time the dignity of
SaddraUi mamdiik (office of Lord Chief Justice) was conferred
upon Shaikh Oad&i, son of Shaikh Jam&l Kambu of Dehli,
through the interest of Kh&n-kli&n4n, who remembered the
kindness which he had received from the Shaikh during the time
of his exile in Gujar&t.^ The honour thus conferred gave the
Shaikh precedence over the grandees {akdbir) of Hindustin and
Khor&s&n. At the same period also that pattern of great men,
Mir 'Abdu>l Latif Eazwini, was appointed tutor to His Majesty,
and His Majesty used often to read with him gha%ah in mystic
language.^
The fort of Gwalior was celebrated for its height and strength,
and had always been the home of great rdjds. After the time
of Salim Kh&n (Isl4m Sh&h) the fort had been placed in the
charge of Sahail, one of his ghuidms, by Sult&n Muhammad
'Adali. When the throne of Akbar had been established at
Agra, Habib 'Ali SulUin, Maks^d 'Ali Eor, and Kij& EJi&n
were sent to take the fort. They invested it for some days, and
the garrison being in distress surrendered.'
•
Fourth year of the Eeign»
The beginning of this year corresponded with Friday, the 2nd
Jum^a-l &khir, 966 h. (10th March, 1559 a.d.). In this year
Kh&n-zani&n was sent to reduce Jauupur, the capital of the
Sharkiya kings, which was now in possession of the Afgh&ns.
He accordingly marched thither with a large force, and having
1 Aoeording to Abd-1 Fazl he exercised great influence oyer Bair&m Khfrn, and
ihb appointment had a baleful effect — Akbar'nama, toI. ii. p. 109.
> In Bahral.6khir.— T. Alfi. See tuprd, p. 168.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
260 NIZAHUD DTN AHMAD.
won great victories, he annexed that country^ to the Imperial
dominions. In this year Habib 'AU Khan was sent against
the fort of Rantambhor. Daring the rule of Sher Kh&n Afgh&n
this fort was under the charge of H&ji Eh&n, one of his ghuldnu^
and this Haji Kh&n had now sold the fort to R&i Saijan,' a
relation {az khishdn) of B&i XJdi Singh, who held great power
in these parts. He had brought all the parganas under his rule,
and had enforced his authority. Habib 'Ali, with his army,
invested the fort, and ravaged all the neighbourhood; the amirs
then departed to their ya^lr«.
Shaikh Muhammad Ghaus arrived at ^gra from Gujarat ; but
as a memoir of the Shaikh is given among the memoirs of the
Bhaikhs of the age in this work, it is unnecessary to dilate upon
the subject here. To be brief, in the year 966, the Shaikh
arrived with his disciples and a large party at Agra, and was
honoured with a royal reception. But there was ill-feeling
between him and Shaikh 6ad&i, and Shaikh Gad&i held great
ascendancy over Kh&u-kh&n&u ; the consequence was that Shaikh
Muhammad did not receive that attention from the Kh&n-kh&n&n
that he had expected. He was greatly annoyed at this, and went
off to Gwalior, which was his place of residence, and there
remained until the end of his days, discharging the duties of
a Shaikh. His Majesty settled upon him one kror (of tankaa f)
as a pension.
At this time, while the Court was at Xgra, Bah&dur Eh&n,'
brother of Kh&n-zam&n, marched to effect the conquest of M&Iwa^
which had formerly belonged to the Khiljl monarchs, but which
had been brought into subjection by B&z Bali&dur, son of Shuj&'
Eh&n Afgh&n.^ He had reached the town of Siri when the
agitation arose about Bair&m Kh&n, and under the orders of the
Kh&n he returned.
1 •* And Benares.*'— 7*. Alfi, * See Bloc1iiDann*8 Ain-i Aihari, ToL L p. 409.
* lb. p. 828. « lb, p. 42S.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBABr. 261
Fifth year of the Beign.
The beginning of this year was Saturday, 16th Jum&da-l &khir,
967 H. (10th March, 1560 a.d.). The general management o^
Imperial affairs was under the direction of Bair&m Eh&n ; but
there were envious malignant men, who were striving to ingratiate
themselves in His Majesty's favour, who lost no opportunity of
speaking an ill word to pervert the mind of the Emperor. Pro*
minent among these men was Adham Kb&u, who, being the
son of M&ham Anka,^ held a higher position than all the other
courtiers. In accord with his mother^ he constantly showed
his malice; but £h&n-kh&n&n's wisdom and ability were so
manifest, that Adham'*s ill-natured observations did not meet with
the royal approval. But at length, on the 8th Jum&da-s s&ni,
967 B., His Majesty crossed the river Jumna on a hunting
expedition, and £h&n-khan&n remained behind at ^gra in
charge of the government. His Majesty reached the town of
Sikandar, half way to Dehli. At this time Shah&bu-d din
Ahmad Kh&n Naishapuri' held the government of Dehli, and
Her Highness Mariam Mak&ni, mother of the Emperor, was
> This name has been printed in Firishta, Bad&dni, and other works as '' Atka,*'
and the translator of Firishta has accordingly called ** M&ham Atka** the father^
instead of mother of Adham Kh&n. Firishta's explanation is nseful. He says that
** a norae's husband and her male relations are called Atka ; the wet-nurse herself, in
Tnrkl, is called Anka (or according to the pronunciation marked by the Calcutta
Chaghat&i Dictionary ^^anagah**) ; a foster brother is termed *^Koka" (or, with the
affix of unity, <« KoMuUh,** which Ab6-1 Fazl writes '' Gokalidth**). M&ham Anka
was Akbar's wet-nurse, and, as Mr. Blochmann quotes, ** she attended on him from the
oadle tiU after his accession." In the Akbar-ndma her position and the influence she
exercised are made rery appareuL She was Akbar's nunc (see auprd^ p. 226], and when
he grew up she was the chief of his harem. She exercised great influence oyer him,
and in the direction of public affairs. Her share in bringing about the fall of Bair&m
Kh6n appears in the text, and after that erent she became, according to Abfi-l Fazl,
the goTeming spirit and real minister. It does not appear who was her husband,
but she was related to Shah&bu-d din Ahmad Kh&n. Mr. Blochmann says of Adham
Kh&n, her son, that ^ the name of his father is unknown : he is evidently a royal
bastard.*' There is a mystery about the paternity, but this statement seems iu-
eonsistent with the respectful terms used by Abd-1 Fazl in speaking of the lady.
Some passages relating to this remarkable woman will be found among the Extracts
from the AJkbar-ndma, See Briggs' Firishta, vol. ii. p. 211. Blochmann's Aht^i
Aibari, p. 323.
* See Blochnuuin's Ain-i Akbari, voL i p. 332.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
262 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
in that city. M&ham Anka, who was related to Shah&bu-d din
Ahmad Kh&n/ settled in her own mind that the best thing she
could do was to incite the Emperor to proceed to Dehli, where,
in coUasion with Shah&bu-d din Ahmad, she (Anka) might
settle what was the best course to pursue. In furtherance of
this plan, she represented to the Emperor that Her Highness
Mariam Mak&ni was in a weak ailing state, and had a great
desire to see him. This statement distressed the Emperor, and
he determined to go on to Dehli.' Shah&bu-d din came out in
state to meet His Majesty, and was graciously received.
M&ham Anka^ in agreement with Shahabu-d din, seized every
opportunity of saying something to set the mind of the Emperor
against Bair&m Eh&n. Thus, she' insinuated that so long as
Bair&m Kh&n was in power, the Emperor would have no will
of his own over the aflFairs of State, — ^that the whole power was
in the Kh&n''s hands, and His Majesty was under his control.
At length she said that when Ehan-kh&n&n discovered that she
had been the cause of the Emperor's proceeding to Dehli, he
would have a grudge against her, and that she was quite unable
to contend against his animosity. She therefore begged His
Majesty to give her leave to proceed to Mecca, so that at the
holy city she might offer up prayers for His Majesty in absence,
instead of serving him in presence. The assiduous attention of
M&ham Anka had won the regard of the Emperor, and he would
not listen to the suggestion of separation from her. He said
he would request Eh&n-kh&n&n to overlook her offence, and he
sent a message to the Kh&n to this effect: **As I have come
all this way without consulting you, my attendants have fallen
under your suspicion. Now you must make yourself quite at
ease about them, so that you may continue to serve me with a
tranquil mind.'*^ Shah&bu-d din Ahmad was very vigilant and
^ Thifl wntenoe if found only in the MS. of the East India librarf.
> " He reached Dehli on the 28th Jumfrda-l &khir."
s The Yeib thronghout this passage is in the plural, but the context makes it elear
that M&ham Anka is the unexpressed nominatiTe.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABASAT-I AKBABI. 263
caalioos in his proceedings. He began to strengthen the forti*
fieations, and took every precaution to get a control over State
affiurs: all the while exerting himself in concert with M&ham
Anka, to set the attendants of the Emperor against the minister.
£h&n-kh4n&n, on receiving the Emperor^'s message, sent
Xhw4ja Amina-d din Mahmud H&ji Mnhammad Sist&nf and
Tarsun Beg,^ who held important offices, to Dehli, to wait upon
EQs Majesty, with this statement : *^ The devotion and loyalty
of your servant would never allow him to do anything to any
servant of the State against His Majesty's wishes ; for nought
but kindness and favour is due to all those who faithfully
discharge their duties/^
The royal ears had been filled with injurious stories and state-
ments against Kh&n-kh&n&n, so the £h&n's message did not
receive His Majesty's approval, and the messengers were sent
back. When the report of His Majesty^s displeasure with
Khan-kh&n&n became public, all men turned their backs upon
bim, and their &ces towards the Emperor. Among the first
who were admitted to royal favour was Kiy& Kh&n Gang.'
Shah&bu-d din Ahmad Khan, with the assistance of M&ham
Anka, inspired every one who came to Court with the hope of
receiving dignities uni jdgirs suitable to their condition.
Kh&n-kh&n&n had long entertained a desire to go on pil-
grimage to the holy places. He informed the amirs and kkdns
who still held to him of the project he had formed, and then
quitted the Imperial service. He sent along with these men
Bah&dur Kh&n, whom he had called from M&lwa, and leaving
i!l!gra,' he proceeded towards N&gor on his pilgrimage to the
holy places. When he arrived at Bay&na, he set at liberty
Muhammad Amin Diw&na, who was there confined, and sent
bim to Court. As soon as intelligence of Eh&n-kh&n&n''s
^ See Blochmann*! Atn-i Akhari, vol. L pp. 842, 874. > Ih, p. 348.
' He left Agra lor N6gor on the 12th Bajab, and on reaching Bay&na he liberated
Sh&h Ab6-1 Ma*&lS, and Muhammad Amin Dlw&na, directing them to proceed to the
Kmperor. Bnt, says Ab(i-1 Fazl, hia object in setting free such turbulent peiaona
was only to foment dl«tarbaacef.^.^^ar-ff<^ma, toI. ii. p. 126.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
264 KIZAMU.D DFN AHMAD.
departure from Agra arrived, Shah&bu-d din Ahmad Kh&n and
M&ham Anka represented to His Majesty that he had left ^ra
with the intention of attacking the Panj&b. His Majesty then
sent Mir ' Abdu-l Latif to the Kh&n-kh&n&n with this message :
^' As I was fully assured of your honesty and fidelity, I left all
important affairs of State in your charge, and thought only of
my own pleasures. I have now determined to take the reins
of government into my own hands, and it is desirable that yon
should now make the pilgrimage to Mecca, upon which you have
been so long intent. A suitable jdgir out of the parganas of
Hindust&n shall be assigned for your maintenance, the revenues
of which shall be transmitted to you by your agents."
When Mir 'Abdu-1 Latif communicated this message to Kh&n-
kh&n&n, he listened attentively, and having parted firom the
Mir, he left Mew&t on his way to N&gor. Of all his fol-
lowers there now remained with him only Wali Beg Zu-1 Kadar,
his sons Husain Kuli Beg and Isma^il Kuli Beg, who were
relations of his, Sh&h Euli Mahrim, Husain Eh&n his sister's
son, and his son-in-law Mahdi K&sim Kh&n. Upon reaching
Ndgor, he sent his banner, kettle-drums, and all other marks of
nobility, to the Emperor by the hands of Husain Euli Beg. The
Emperor had left Dehli, and was proceeding towards the Panj&b.^
He had reached the pargana of Jhajhar when Husain Euli Beg
waited upon him. Among the persons present (with the Beg)
was Sh&h Abu-1 Ma'dii, who, being mounted on horseback,
endeavoured to overtake His Majesty. This greatly offended
the Emperor, who ordered the culprit into confinement, and
placed him in the custody of Shah&bu-d din Ahmad. The
surrender of the banner and the other insignia of nobility
gratified the Emperor.
Fir Muhammad Eh&n Shirw&ni, whom the Eh£n-kh&n&n had
banished from the country and sent to Mecca, had waited in
Gujar&t for the proper season (of sailing). On hearing of the
disgrace of the Eh&n-kh&n&n, he returned to Court with all
1 "Ntgor."— .^dflr-urfiwa, vol ii. p. 12«.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARF. 265
possible speed. He met with a verj gracious reception, and was
honoured with the title ^^ Nasiru-l Mulk" as well as with a
banner and kettle-drums. He was then sent with a force to
hasten Kh&n-kh&n&n''s departure for Mecca, and accordingly
marched after him. After this His Majesty returned to Dehli,
and a^riTidn was issued, summoning Mun'im Kh&n from K&bul.
As Mai Deo B&j& of Joudhpdr held a strong and threatening
position in the way to Gnjar&t, with the intention of attacking
Bair&m Kh&n^ the Kh&a delayed his movements, and eventually
marched from N&gor towards Bikanir. B&i Kaly&n M&l and
his son B&j Sing,^ who were the zdminddrs of that country,
received him with great kindness, and treated him most hospita-
bly. After staying there a few days, and resting from the
fatigues of the journey, he learnt that Pir Muhammad Eh&n
had been sent to pursue him, and this greatly annoyed and dis-
tressed him. Some evil-minded persons, having found their
opportunity, played upon the feelings of the Eh&u-kh&n&n, and
inciting him to rebellious acts, he went towards the Panjab.
When he arrived at the fort of Tabarhindh (Sirhind), which
was the jdgir of Sher Muhammad Diw&na, one of his old
servants,' to whom he had shown great kindness, in full confi-
dence of his faithfulness, Eh&n-kh&n&n left there his son Mirz&
£han ['Abdu-r Rahim], who was then in the third year of his
age, but who is at the present day exalted to the dignity of
Kh&n-kh&n&n and sipdh-saldr (commander-in-chief). He also
left his females and property, and proceeded on his course. Sher
Muhammad thereupon appropriated all the property, and treated
the dependents of the Eh&n-kh&n&n with great indignity. The
Kh&n-kh&n&n was in the pargana of Dip&lpur when he was
informed of these proceedings. He sent his diwdn Ehw&ja
Muza&r 'Ali (who afterwards became Muzaffar Eh&n') along with
^ Thej belonged to the R&thors of BikanSr, and will frequently appear in the
IbUowing pages. Bee Blochmann's Aln^i Akbarij Yol. L p. 357.
* Bad&dnl (toI. li p. 40} calla him the reputed son {pitar-i khwdndah) of
Eh6]|.kh&n&n.
> Blochnuuin's Ain-i Akbari, voL i. p. 34S.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
266 KIZXMir-D DTN AHMAD.
Darwesh Muhammad Uzbek to ezpostnlate and intercede with
Sher Muhammad, but the latter seized Muzaffar 'Ali, and sent
him prisoner to the Emperor. Sorely troubled by these acts, the
Kh&n went on to J&landhar.
On the Emperor being informed of Kh&n-kh&n&u's advance
towards the Panj&b, he despatched Shamsu-d din Muhammad
Kh&n Atka,^ his son Ydsuf Kh&n,' Husain Kh&n a relation of
Shah&bu-d din Ahmad £h&n, and a body of nobles to the
Panj&b. When the royal forces reached the town of Dagd&r,'
and proceeded from thence to the pargana of Eon&,^ they
hemmed in Kh&n-kh&n&n, so that he was oblige^ to fight.
Compelled to action, he drew up his forces, and confronted the
royal army. A sharp action ensued, with considerable loss to
both sides,^ and Eh&n-kh&nan, being defeated, fled towards the
Siw&lik hills. Wall Beg Zd-1 Kadar and his son Isma'U Kuli
Beg (who now holds a position among the great nobles), Ahmad
Beg, Ta'kub Beg Hamad&ni, and all his brothers, were taken
prisoners, and great booty fell into the hands of the royal troops.
This victory was gained in the fifth year of the Ilahi, agreeing
with 967 A.H.
After Shamsu-d din Muhammad £h&n Atka had marched for
the Panj&b, the Emperor left Khw&ja ' Abdu4 Majid Harawi (who
had been admitted to the position of a minister {silk i wuzard)^
and had been honoured with the title of Asaf £h&n,^ in charge '
of Dehli, and on the 2nd Zi-1 ka'da, 967, himself marched to
the Panj&b. He placed Husain KuU Beg, son of Wall Zu-1
Kadar, by way of precaution, in custody of Xsaf Kh&n, with
1 Blochmann's Afn-iAkbari, yoI. ii. p. 821. ' Ih. p. 323.
' *' In tlie Ticinitj of J&landhar, between the Satlej and Biyah.'* — Akbar^mdma^
Yol. ii. p. 140.
« Bad&6ni (p. 40) calls it «Ean(ir.** Abd-l Fazl« «Konaj6r." Faiii tajt
" Eon&ch6r/' one of the villages of pargana RfrhCin.
* According to Abd-l Fazl and Faizi, the Imperial forces were at first repulsed,
and the yictorj was gained only by the great gallantry and desperate exertions of the
Imperial generals.
* Asaf was the wazir of Snlaimfrn, and proTcrbial for his wisdvm. See Bloch*
mann's Aln^i Akbari^ Yol. i. pp. 366, 368.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAXAT-I AKBARr. 267
directions to treat him generously, and do him no harm. When
the Emperor reached J&Iandhar, Man'im Eh&n, who had been
sammoned from E&bul, arrived,^ and was accompanied bj Mukim
Kh&n, sister's son of Tardi Beg £h&n, and several other amirs.
Mun'im Kh&n was raised to the dignity of minister {tcakdlat),
and received the title of Khin-kh&n&n, and the nobles in his
company received favours and honours suitable to their respective
positions.
At this place Akbar received the intelligence of the vic-
tory gained by Shamsu-d din Muhammad Kh&n. Those who
had been taken prisoners in that engagement were brought into
the royal presence captive and forlorn, and were committed to
safe custody. One of the number, Wali Beg, who had received
a severe wound, died in prison. So his head was cut off and
sent to Dehli. The Emperor then marched onwards toward the
Siw&lik hills,' in pursuit of the Kh&n-kh&n&n. He reached the
neighbourhood of Talw&ra, a district in the Siw&lik, belonging
to B&J& Gobind' Ghand, where the Kh&n-kh&n&n had sought
refuge. A party of adventurous soldiers dashed forward into
the hills, and surrounding the place put many of the defenders
to the sword. Sult&n Husain Jal&fr was killed in the action.
When they brought his head into the presence of the Kh&n-
kh&n&n, in a burst of feeling he exclaimed, '^ This life of mine is
not worth so much, that a man like this should be killed in my
defence.'* Depressed and anxious, the Eh&n instantly sent one
of his followers, Jam&l Eh&n, to the Emperor with this message:
^^ I deeply repent my deeds, which have not been entirely under
my own control ; but if I am favoured with the royal clemency,
» ''On the 15th ZM ka'da."— ^Jtiflr-iirfmii, toI. ii. p. 143. Muldm Kb&n
aftenraidi became Shujli*at Eh&n. See Blochmann's Ain-% Akbari^ toI. i. p. 371.
Bad&dni sap the meeting was at LCidhiy&na. — Bad&dai, yoI. iL p. 43.
* He flnt went to Lahore, which he reached on the 26th ZS-1 hijja.~^A^r-ii^»Mi,
ToL iL p. 145.
* AM-1 Faxl tays: '< B4j6 Ganee of Talw4ra, a strong place in the midst of the
Siwfclik bills ;" and, according to him, the royal forces had a good deal of fighting
with the hill people. — Akbar'ttdma, yol. ii. p. 146.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
268 KIZi)CMU-D DrN AHMAD.
I will throw the veil of oblivion over my misdeeds, and will
present myself in your presence, and hdpe for your forgiveness."
When this message was brought to the ears of the Emperor,
the recollection of old services rose up in his memory, and he gave
orders that Maul&n& 'Abdu-lla Sult&nptiri, who had received the
title of Makhdumu-1 Mulk, should proceed, with several other
attendants of the Court, to Kh&n-khdndn, and having assured
him of the Emperor's kindly feeling, should bring him to his
presence.^ When the £h&n-kh&n&n approached the royal camp,
all the amirs and khans went out, by the Emperor's order, to
meet him, and conducted him to the Emperor with every mark
of honour. On his coming into the royal presence, the Kh£n
placed his sad countenance upon the ground of supplication, and
craved forgiveness for his oiFences. The Emperor received him
with the most princely grace, and presented him with a splendid
robe of honour. Two days afterwards, he gave him permission
to depart on a pilgrioiage to Mecca' and the holy places. The
royal camp then moved on its return to Dehli, and the Emperor
went towards His&r-Firozah hunting.
Khan-kh&n&n, with his people, took the road to Gujar&t. He
reached the city of Pattan, in Gujar&t, and there rested for some
days. This city was then under the government of Musa Kh&n
Lodi Pul&dl. Kh&n-kh&u&n went about examining the city, and
one day he went out to the Eol&bi (lake), a place within sight of
the city, and famous for Sahasuak.^ They call it in the Hindi
language Nard. A temple R&n&mand, like a thousand temples,
stood there, and gave it celebrity. After visiting this place^ he
went about (the lake) in a boat. When he disembarked and
returned home, an Afgh&n, named Mub&rak Eh&n Loh&nf,
> Bad&dni (vol. ii p. 44) says it was Mua'im Eh&n who conducted him to th«
Emperor, and that he plac^ aU his tents and attendants at the fallen minister's
disposal.
' According to Bad&6nS (toI. ii. p. 44), the Emperor furnished him with money,
and the nobles, great and small, and the courtiers, lent their assistance, ** and made
up the supply of money and goods which the Turks call * Chandogh,* "
s « Bahnas Lang."— Bad&dni, yoI. ii. p. 45.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEXT-I AEBAEr. 2G9
whose father had been killed in an action with the Mughals/
came to wait upon the Kh&n-kh&D&n, with the intention of
wreakinf^ vengeance upon him. When they were shaking hands,
he assassinated him with his dagger.^ The words *•*' Muhammad
Bair&m" contain the date of this murder. Some scoundrels
then plundered the encampment of the deceased. Muhammad
Amin Diw&na and B&b& Zambdr, with several of the eunuchs,
rescued from the fray Mirz& ^Abdu-r Rahim, the son of the
Xh&n-kh&n&n,' who was then a child of only four years of age,
but in these days has been exalted to the dignity of Kh&n*
kh&n&n. They conducted the boy to Ahmadab&d, and from
thence they carried him to the Court of the Emperor, in the
hope of obtaining his protection. The Emperor received the
child with the most princely &vour, and the good qualities which
he exhibited so won upon the Emperor's mind, that his prosperity
went on growing until he attained the dignity of Kh&n-kh&n&n.
When the Khan-khanan (Bair&m Khan) went to Gujar&t,
the Emperor proceeded towards His&r-Firozah on a hunting
excursion, but the army was sent on to Dehli, the capital, by
the direct route. Having hunted with some leashes of a kind
of leopard, which is called cMta in Hindi, on the 4th Babi^u-1
awwal, 968 h. (9th Nov., 1560), he arrived at Dehli, and there
stopped awhile for a little rest and enjoyment. On the 2nd
Babi'u-s s&ni he started for Agra by boat, and arrived there on
the 12th of the same month.
Sixth pear of the Reign,
The beginning of this year was Sunday, 24th Jum&da-l &khir,
968 H. (10th March, 1561). In this year the marriage of
Muhammad Baki Khan was celebrated with a lady whose &mily
^ He bad been put to deatb by order of tbe Kh&n-Eb&n&a. — Bad&tfnf, toI. ii. p. 45.
* fie bad tbirty or forty companions. lie stabbed tbe Kb&n witb bis dagger in
file beck, so tbat tbe point came ont of bis bosom, and one of tbe assassin's com-
pMiiona finisbed tbe business witb bis sword. — T. Alfi^ KndAkbar^ndma, yuLii.p. 165.
> His mother and tbe attendants were also rescued by tbe courage of Mubammad
Amln and bis followers.— T. Al/i,
Digitized by VjOOQIC
270 KIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
connexions have been explained in another place. The ceremony
W3S performed with great magnificence, and was followed by
rejoicings and feasting for several days.
In the days of Sher Kh&n the country of M&lwa had been
held by Shuj&'at Kh&n/ who was one of his own clan {Khdua
khail)^ and after his death it had come into the hands of his
son B&z Bah&dur. It now came to His Majesty's knowledge
that B&z Bah&dur had given himself up to sensaality,^ and cared
nothing for the country. Tyrannical and overbearing men had
consequently oppressed the poor and helpless, and the peasantry
and people had been reduced to distress. The honour of the
Imperial throne required that this country should be again
brought under its control, and find peace and security. So
Adham Kh&n, Plr Muhammad Eh&n, S&dik Eh&n, Eiy& Eh4n
Gang, 'Abdu-Ua Kh&n Uzbek, Shah Muhammad Kandah&ri,
and some other amirs, were nominated to effect the conquest of
that country.' They accordingly marched thither, and when
they came within ten kos of S&rangpur in that country, B&z
Bahadur, who was in that city, awoke from his slumber of neglect^
and took up a position, which he fortified, two Aos from the city.
B&z Bah&dur was the most accomplished man of his day in the
science of music and in Hindi song. He spent much of his time
in the society of singers and musicians. When the Imperial army
was at ten kos from S&rangpur, Adham Kh&n sent forward an
advanced force to the entrenchments which B&z Bah&dur had
thrown up around his army. Several attempts were made to
entice him out of his lines, and the royal forces drew together
in order to surround him. B&z Bah&dur then threw off his
apathy, and marched out to give battle. But the Afgh&n nobles
in his army were disaffected, and made their escape, and he
himself was obliged to take flight.^ Eup-mati, his favourite
^ He was, as before stated, commonljr called '* Shuj&wal Kh&n/' bat Bad&^ni
(vol. ii. p. 47} goes a little wider, and calU him *< Sazawal Kh&n."
' Ab(i-l Fazl calU him also drankard.
* ** With five or six thousand men.'* — Faizi.
« « Towards £h&ndesh and Borhlinpar."— Faizi.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 271
wife, who used to recite poetry, several other wives, and all his
treasure fell into the hands of the Imperial forces. As the
fogitives were making off, a eunach of B&z Bah&dar^s woanded
Bup-mati with a sword, to prevent her fidling into the hands
of strangers; and when Adham Kh&n summoned her to his
presenee, she took poison and killed herself.
Adham Khan wrote an account of the victory to the Emperor.
He retained all the ladies and musicians and singers, but he sent
some elephants, under charge of S4dik Kh&n, to Court. This
retention of the ladies and other spoils displeased the Emperor,
and made him deem it necessary to proceed in person to M&Iwa.
On the 2 1st Sha'ban, 968 H^ the Emperor left Agra, and marched
towards M&lwa. When he reached the fort of G&grdn, which
is celebrated among the fortresses of M&lwa for its strength and
height, he gave orders for its reduction. But the commandant
of the fort hastened to surrender, and presented his tribute.
This greatly pleased the Emperor, who made a forced march in
the night, and arrived by dawn in the vicinity of S&rangpur.^
Adham Kh&n had left Sarangpur in order to besiege G&grun, so
he met the Emperor at three ko9 distance from that place,' and
was graciously received. Then they rode on to the city, and
Adham Kh&n's abode was given up to His Majesty. Adham
Kh&n now collected all his spoils, and presented them to the
Emperor, who stayed a few days to refresh and enjoy himself,
and then returned to Agra.
At that place Pir Muhammad Kh&n Shirw&ni and other nobles
who had jdgirB in M41wa, waited upon the Emperor. They
were honoured with gifts of robes and horses, and were then
sent back to their jdgirs. When the Emperor was near ^arwar,
^ The joornej was performed in sixteen days. — Faizi.
3 ft* As he knew nothing of the Emperor's approach, he was astounded, and wondered
what was the reason." — T,Alfl, Ahii-l Fazl also describes the amazement of Adham
Eh&n at the sndden appearance of the Emperor, who had marched so fast that he
outstripped the messengers sent by Hliham Anka to warn Adham Eh&n. He also
describes how Adham Kh&n surrendered his spoils, and how reloctantly he at last
gmve up the women and the singing and dancing girls of B&z Bah&dur.— ^A^r-
mfsM, ToL ii. p. 178.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
272 NIZAMir-D DTN AHMAD.
a formidable tiger came out of the jungle. The Emperor slowly
approached the beast, and with one blow of his sword brought
her to the ground. Some of his attendants killed the young
ones with swords and spears.
Muhammad Asghar, mir-munsM^ who was celebrated for the
beauty of his writing and composition, was now appointed Jtflr-
munshiy and received the title of Ashraf Kh&n. On the 29th
Eamazin, 968, the Court reached Agra.
When 'Adali^ the Afghan, was slain by the sons of Muhammad '
Xh&n Bangali/ who was one of the nobles of SaHm Kh&n A%h&n,
^Adalfs son, Sher Xh&n, took his seat upon the throne of Govern-
ment, in the fort of Chun&r, and then led an army to attempt
the conquest of Jaunpur. Thereupon Kh&n-zam&n sent infor-
mation to the Imperial Courfc, and the amirs who held jdgin in
that part of the country were commanded to support Ehan-
zam&n. Ibr&him £h&n Uzbek, Majnun £h&n K&kshal, Sh&ham
Kh&n Ja14ir, Kam^l Kh&n Gakhar, and many other chiefs, in
obedience to the royal order, joined Kuli Kh4n (Kh&n-zam4n).*
The Afgh&ns, having crossed the river, gave battle, but Khdn-
zam&n exerted himself gallantly, and put them to flight.
Various actions of Khan-zam&n excited a suspicion of his
intention to rebel, so towards the close of the year His Majesty
proceeded towards Jaunpur, on a progress of hunting and
pleasure. On approaching Ealpi, the camp was about to be
pitched, when 'Abdu-Ua Eh&n Uzbek, who held K4Ipi in jdgir^
came forward, and begged His Majesty to honour his house
by taking up his quarters there. The proposal was graciously
accepted, and 'Abdu-Ua Xh&n rendered the services due from
him, and presented his offerings, for which he was honoured by
His Majesty ''s approbation.
When the Court reached Karra, ^Ali Kuli Kh&n Kh&n-zamfin
^ See tuprc^y p. 66.
' The force of the enemy vas nearly 20,000 horse, 60,000 foot, and 600 elephants.
Eh&n-zam&n declined to meet them in the open. Wlien the enemy crossed the riTer,
he bore all before him, bnt h*s force was erentnally cnt np in the streets and anbnrbs
of JannpCir. — Akbar^dma, toL ii. p. 186.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 273
and his brother Bah&dar Khan came up by forced marches from
their jdgir of Jaonpdr, and on being received, they presented
suitable offerings. Their fidelity and services being recognized,
they received presents of horses and robes, and were then dis-
missed to i\iQiT jdgirB. On the 17th Zi-1 hijja, of the sixth year
of the Il&hi, corresponding with 968 h., the Court reached i^gra.
Shamsu-d d(n Muhammad Atka,^ who bore the title of Khdn-i
*azam, and held the government of the Panjdb, now came to
Court. He was graciously received, and the direction of the
affairs of the State was committed to his charge.^ About the
same time, Adham Khdu, in obedience to a royal command,
came firom M&lwa to the capital^ and was welcomed with due
honour.
On the 8th Jum&da-l awwal, 969 h., the Emperor started to
pay a visit to the tomb of Eutbu-1 auliy& Khwdja Mu'inu-d din
Chishti.' When he reached the town of Sdmbar, Bdj& Bih&ri
Mal,^ one of the chief rdjda of that country, came with great
loyalty and respect, along with his son Bhagw&n D&s,^ to pay
^ Sbamsa-d din Mubammad wai a natire of Ghaznf, and began life as a common
loldier under Prince K&mr&n. It was be wbo assisted tbe Emperor Hum&yiin ont
of the river after the disastrous battle of Kananj {jtuprd, p. 205). He accompanied
the Emperor in his exile, and his wife was one of the nurses {anka) of Akbar. As
ibster fiither {atka) of Akbar, he received the title of Atka Kh&n, and his sons were
the kokas or kokaltdshea of tbe Emperor. His family is sometimes called the Atka-
khttiL — Blochmann's Ain-% Akbari^ vol. L p. 321.
' ** This appointment greatly annoyed M6ham Anka, who, from her superior intelli-
gence and many services, bad deemed herself permanent minister {wakil i taUanat bik-
utikldl). Mu*nim Kh&n, who bad been the ostensible minister, was also aggrieved."
— Akbar-ndma, vol. ii. p. 189.
9 He was a native of Sist&n, and is called also Sanjari. — Akbar-ndma, vol. ii. p. 195.
* Bih&ri Mai was a Kachbw&hah, and was the first R&jpdt cbief who joined Akbar.
He is often called, as in our MS., Bih&r& Mai. He and bis family played distinguished
ports in the reign of Akbar, and Intermarried with the Imperial family. His four
hroihers were named P(iran, Rnpsi, Askaran, and Jag Mai. He hud three sons in
Akbar's service, Bhagw&n D&s, Jagann&th, and Salh&di; the first of whom was
a meet distinguished ofiicer, and on one occasion saved the Emperor's life. He is
also called Bhagwan and Bhagwant D&s. The son of the latter, named M&n Sing,
WB8 no less distinguished, and attained the highest rank. — See Blocbmann's Aht^i
jiihari^ voL i. pp. 328, 333, 339.
* The MSS. have « Gobind D&b," but Bad&tini (vol ii. p. 60) is right in calling
him^'Bhagw&nD&B."
TOI*. T. 18
Digitized by VjOOQIC
274 NIZAMU-D DrK AHMAD.
his services to His Majesty. He was received with great honour
and attention, and his daughter^ an honourable lady, was
accepted by His Majesty, and took her place among the ladies
of the Court. From thence he proceeded to Ajmir, and he
dispensed many gifts and pensions among the inhabitants of that
noble city. Mirz& Sharafu-d din Hu8ain> who held a j&^ in
the territory of Ajmir, came to pay his homage. He was sent
with several other amirn of that province to effect the conquest
of the fort of Mirtha,^ about twenty h)% from Ajmir, which was
held by Jai Mai.' His Majesty then started for i^gra, and
making forced marches, he performed the distance, one hundred
and twenty hM^ in a day and night.'
Seventh pear of the Beign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Tuesday, 7th
Bajab, 969 h. (10 March, 1562). At the beginning of this
year Mirz& Sharafu-d din Hnsain besieged the fort of Mfrtha,
being assisted by Sh&h Biddgh Kh&u,^ and his son 'Abdn-l
Matlab Eh&n, Muhammad Husain Shaikh, and some other
nobles. Great exertions were made on both sides, but at length
it was agreed that the garrison should march out with their
horses and arms {kamchi)^ but leave behind all their property
and effects. When the victorious army went to take possession
of the fort, Jai Mai marched out with his men. But Deo-das,
in shame and pride, set fire to the property which was in the
fortress, and then sallied forth at the head of a party of R&jpdts,
and passed in front of the royal army. Mirz& Sharafo-d din and
other nobles followed Deo-d&s, and when they came up with him,
he turned round and attacked them. Many of the royal soldiers
fell, and nearly 200 B&jputs were slain. Deo*d&8 himself was
> Kiriha, or Mairiha, fortj miles west by Mrih from AjmSr."
* Jai Mai waa the oomraaodaiit cm behalf of B&i M&l Xkc.^Akhm nimm^ toL iL
p. 204.
* Dar 8habdn-ro9, The T, Alfi giyes the mor& probable tine of <^tkrM dftji^"
and Ab6-1 Fazl saya «<leflB than ihiee days."
* See Blochmaxm'B JLi$i^% Akbari, toL i. p. 371,
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEAT-I AXBABJ. 275
unhorsed, and being overtaken aa he lay upon the ground, he
waa cat to pieeea.^ The fort of Mlrtha was then oceupied bj
the Imperial forces.
Aboat this time Pir Muhammad Kh&n,^ who^ after the depar-
ture of Adham E3i4n, held the government of M&lwa^ assembled
the forces of that province, and marched to subdue the countries
of Xair and Burh&npur. He laid siege to Bij&garh, the prin-
cipal of all the fortresses of that country, which he took by
BtoriD, and put all the garrison to the sword,^ He then marched
against Asir, a well-known place in Kh&ndesh« Grossing the
river Nerbadda, he gave many of the towns and villages to the
swoid and destruetion, and came to Burh&npur. That city also
he took by storm, and gave orders for a general massacre.
M^uiy of the learned men and saiyid% of the place he caused to
be decapitated in his presence. The governors of ^ir and
Burh&npur, and B&z Bah&dur, who lived in this vicinity since
his flight from M&lwa, now concerted together, and, assisted by
all the zaminddrs of the country, they assembled a force with
which they assailed Pir Muhammad Kh&n.^ Unable to resist,
Pir Muhammad fled towards Mandd, and when he came to the
Kerbadda, he^ and all the nobles with him, plunged into its
waters. It so happened that a camel came up and bit the horse
upon which he was riding. He was thrown off into the water
and drowned, thus receiving the recompense of his deeds.^ The
other nobles, on reaching M&lwa, found that the country was
lofirt, so they pursued their course to the Court of the Emperor.
I « Some say lie was wounded, but escaped, and after some yean re-appeared in
Hie gniM of a jogU Some recognized, otiers repttdiated, Mm. At length he was
kflled in one of their qnaxrek." — Tdrikh^i Alfl.
* '^ Whose boldness and courage were greater than his jadgment"— .<^dar-fidwta,
ToL ii. p. 211.
' *'He next proceeded against Snlt&np6r, and annexed it to the Imperial X/ark."
tone^"^Akdar'ndma, toL ii. p. 212.
* As hii men <*were pnrsoing their straggling march homewards, laden with spoil.
Pfr Mohammad made an attempt to beat off the porsoers, but he was ill supported."
— ^JUor-fidifitf, Tol. ii. p. 213.
* Badk&Bl (toL ii. p. 51) is eloquent vpon the sabject : " By way of water he
went to fire ; and the sighs of orphans, poor wretches, and eapttTes settled his business."
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276 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
B&L Bah&dur pursaed them, and brought the whole of Malwa
once more into his power. The amirs who had abandoned
M&lwa, and had come to Court without orders, were imprisoned
for a time, and then set at liberty,
^Abda-lla Kh&n Uzbek now received ordere to retrieve this
disaster in M&lwa, and Mu'inu-d din Ahmad EJi&n Farankhudi,
and several other Kh&ns, were directed to assist him. Towards the
end of the year 969 h. (1562 A.D.), "'Abdn-Ua and his auxiliaries
entered M4Iwa, and B&z Bah&dur, being unable to withstand
him, took to flight.^ A force was sent in pursuit, and coming up
with the fugitives, killed many of them. B&z Bah&dur found
protection for some time with R&n4 TJdi Sing,^ one of the chief
rdjds of M&rwdr, and afterwards he repaired to Gujarit, but
eventually he threw himself upon the mercy of the Emperor,
and sought a refuge from the frowns of fortune.^ 'Abdu-Ua Khia
remained at Mandu, and the other amirs returned to their yo^ir^.
Mu'in Eh&n, after setting the affairs of the country in order,
returned to Court.
An intimacy and friendship had existed between the late
Emperor Hum&yun and Shdh Tahm&sp Sdfi of Persia. When
Hum&yun died, and was succeeded by Akbar, the Sh&h was
desirous of keeping up friendly relations. He accordingly sent
his nephew, Saiyid Beg, son of Ma'^sum Beg, to whom he gave
the title Ummu-ughli (nucleus son), as his ambassador, with
costly presents. When Saiyid Beg approached Agra, many
kh&ns and great men were sent forth to meet him, and to bring
him into the city with suitable honours. The sum of seven lacs
of tanhas was appropriated to him. He remained at A§;r2k two
months, and having received a horse and a robe, he took his
departure, carrying with him presents from Hindust&n.
» " To the hiUfl of Kambalmk."— T. Alfi.
« « At Chitor and TJdiptir."— Badiiini, vol. ii. p. 61.
' He was imprisoned for some time, but (soon after his release) he died. — Bad&6ni,
vol. ii. p. 61. Faizi sajs he was granted a manaab of 2000. See Blochmann's
4if^i Akbari, yol i. p. 428.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 277
Eighth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Wednesday, 18th
Hajab, 970 h. (13 March, 1563 a-d.). A tragical event occurred
in the coarse of this year.^ Adhara Kb4n Eokalt&sh, son of
M&ham Anka^' conld not endare to see the elevation of his
compeers.' In the presumption of youth, and pride of wealth and
station, he yielded to the incentives of Shah&bu-d d(n Ahmad
Kh&n, Mu'nim Eh&n Kh&n-kh4n&n, and several other nobles,
and murdered Eh&n-i 'azam [Shamsn-d din Muhammad Atka],
then prime minister, as he was sitting in his public office. Then
trusting to the favour and kindness which had been sliown to
him by the Emperor, he went and stood at the door of the
harem. His Majesty rushed out of the harem, sword in hand,
and the assassin was bound hand and foot, and cast over the
parapet in punishment of his crime.^ This murder was com-
mitted on the morning of Sunday, 12th Bamaz&n, 970 H. All
those who had taken part in the conspiracy fled, and hid them-
selves through fear of punishment. Mu'^nim Kh&n and Mu-
hammad K&sim Eh&n Mir-i bahr (commander of the boats)
went over the Jumna, and destroyed the bridge by which they
crossed. Shab&bu-d din Ahmad Khan Naishapiiri concealed
himself. His Majesty showed great solicitude for the sons of
the deceased minister, and for M&ham Anka; but the latter,
in anger and in grief for her son, fell ill and died forty days
afterwards.
1 Abtf-I Fazl and most other writers plaee this oTent one year earlier.
' He was her jonnger ton. His brother was Muhammad B&kf Eh&n. See Ahbar"
ndmoy Tol. ii p. 218. Blocbmann's Ain^i Akbariy vol. L pp. 323 and 381.
* The T. Alfi represents him as gratified with the death of Bair&m Eh&n, who had
always been iiispiciow and watchfhl of him.
A Bad&ikni pkoes this aseassination in 969 h. He says the nnfortnnate minister
was eat to pieces {pdra pdra), and he adds that as a spark of life was left in the
aesosrin after his ML, the Emperor ordered him to be thrown OTer the parapet again.
He was boned one day before his victim. Firishta's aeeonnt agrees ; but the trans-
lation is inaocurate in two points. It calls the minister Shah&bn-d din instead of
Shamsn-d din, and maVes M&ham Anka father of the minister instead of mother of
the assassin. Bee Extract finom Akhar-nimaj itifrd.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
278 KIZiCliTJ.D Dm AHHAD.
Next day (after the murder) Ashraf Kh&n Mir-mumhi re-
ceived orders to seek out and bring back to His Majesty Mu'^nim
Eh&n, Shah&bu-d d(n Ahmad Eh&n, and K&sim Eh&n. The
thought of having participated in this plot weighed upon the
mind of Mu'nim Eh&n, so although he held the title of Kh&n-
kh&n&n, and held the offices of minister (wakdlat) and tutor
{atdlik\ he having found an opportunity left i^gra by night, and
went ofip along with E&sim Kh&n, commander of the boats, to-
wards K&bul, where his son * Abdu-1 Ghani Eh&n was then li^ng.
When they came to the pargana of Sarut, in the Doab, the
jdgir of Mir MahmM Munshi^ one of the MunshFs officers,
Kasim j^li SIst&ni, who was shikkddr of the district, having
heard of their arrival as ftigitives from the Court, went out with
a party of the inhabitants, and made them prisoners. They
were then sent to His Majesty, who winked at their offence,
and reinstated them in their offices.
Conquest of the Qdkhar country.
The country of the Gakhars lies upon the banks of the river
Sind, well known as the NlJ-db. This territory, from the
Siwdlik hills to the borders of Kashmir, has been from all time
the possession of the Gakhars, although other tribes, such as tlie
Khari, J&nuba, Jatriya, Bhukiy&l, and Jat dwell in those parts
in subordination to the Gakhars. From the beginning of the
reign of the late Emperor B&bar to the present time, this tribe
would not suffer any intermission of loyalty to the illustrious
dynasty, but remained steadfast in their obedience and devotion.
Strang Sult&n was especially noted for his fidelity and loyalty.
When Sher Eh&n acquired the supreme power in Hindust&n, he
wanted to bring the Gttkhars under his authority, and used
strenuous exertions to effect his purpose, but made little progress,
until he succeeded, after much trouble, in getting S&rang Sultin
into his hands as a prisoner. He ordered S&rang Sult&n to be
flayed, and shut up his son Kam&l Kh&n in the fort of Gwalior.
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TABAEiiCT^I AKRABr. 279
After the death of Sdrang^ his brother i([dam became the chief
of the clan. He abo espoused the cause of the Imperial ^mily,
and opposed the Afgh&ns.
When Sher Kh&n died, and his son Salim Eh&n obtained
the supreme authority, he also, in imitation of his father, plun-
dered and laid waste various portions of the Gakhar terri-
tory, and did his utmost to vex and injure them. On one
occasion, when some prisoners were brought to G-walior for
punishment, he ordered them to be placed in a house with a
quantity of gunpowder, and the house to be set on fire. Common
report tells how all these captives were blown into the air, and
how their bodies were blown to pieces. Kam&l Kh&n, who was
sitting in a comer of the house, was by God's mercy saved.
When Salim Kh&n heard of his preservation he sent for him,
and having induced him to take an oath of fidelity, appointed
him to act, in concert with the governor of the Panj&b, in the
subjugation of the Gakhar territory.
Afterwards, when Hindust&n again came under the rule of
the Imperial house, Elamil Kh&n followed the example of his
predecessors, and paid his allegiance. He was treated with
princely fiivour, and received a grant of the parganas of Hanswa,
Fathpdr, and Elarra-M&nikpur as a jdgir. There he remained
until Sher Kh&n, the son of Salim Kh&n, attacked 'Ali Kuli
Eh&n, and endeavoured to get possession of these districts.
Kam&l Kh&n was then ordered to support 'Ali Kuli Kh&n,
and he exhibited such courage and resolution that he was
graciously told that whatever request he liked to make should
be granted. Kam&l Kh&n, in his love for his native land^
begged that he might be restored to his paternal inheritance.
A farm&n was accordingly issued that of the territories for-
merly held by Sult&n S&rang, and now in the possession of
Adam Kh&n Gakhar, one half should be given to Kam&l
Kh&n, and the other half should remain in the possession
of Adam Kh&n. Orders were accordingly issued to the amir%
of the Panj&b, to Mir Muhammad Kh&n, known as Khdfi-i
Digitized by VjOOQIC
280 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
kaldn^^ and to Kntbu-d din Muhammad Kh&n, that if Adam
Eh&n made any resistance to the arrangement, they were to take
the whole of the territory from him, and give it to Kamal Khan.
When the amirs informed Adam Kh4n of the purport of the
farmdnsy he and his son and his army were dissatisfied, and paid
no heed to the command. A royal army marched into the
country of the Gakhars to subdue it, and Adam Kh&n and his
son resisted. Some sharp fighting followed, but the Gakhars
were defeated, and Adam Eh&n was made prisoner. His son,
with the defeated army, fled into Kashmir, but after some time
he also was taken prisoner.* All the GkJchar territory then came
under the power of the Imperial officers, and they made it over
to Kamdl Kh&n. The amirs also placed Adam Kh&n and his
son in charge of Kam&l Kh&n, and departed to their own jdgirs.
Kam&l Khan kept Adam Kh&n near him until he died.
Affairs of Mu'nim Beg {ai Kdbul).
When Mu'nini Kh4n left Kdbul to visit the Court of the
Emperor, Muhammad Kh&n Akhta-begi was left there as go-
vernor, but on Mu'nim Kh&n being informed of his ill-treatment
of the people of K&bul, he removed him from ofBce, and appointed
his own sou, Ghani Kh&n, in his place. He also sent back his
nephew Abu-1 Fath Beg, son of his brother Faz&il Beg, to
assist Ghani Khan in his government. After a time M&h
Ghochak Begam and the people of K&bul were greatly distressed
by the proceedings of Ghani Kh&n.^ Among other acts he kept
in confinement Tolak Kh&n Kulchiu, one of the oldest servants
of the dynasty, until the people interfered and set him at liberty.
^ He was the elder brother of Atka Kh&n, Khdn-i *azam. Eatba-d din ires a
joanger brother. They belonged to the Atka-khaU, See note, fvprd, p. 27S.
Blochmann'g Ain-i AJcbari^ pp. 322 and 833.
> Both father and son were placed in the custody of Eam&l Eh&n. The father
was kept in confinement till his death ; the son was put to death. — Akbar^ndm*^
Tol. ii. (The episode about the Gakhars seems to have been omitted from the printed
edition of the Akbar^ndma,)
* '^ He was wanting in sense and snaTity."~>^^ter-fidm0, toI. ii. p. 231.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBART. ^81
Tolak Kh&n then went to the village of M&m&-kh&tdD, which
was his jdgir^ and there waited his opportunity. It happened
that a caravan from Balkh came and halted in the village of
Gh&rikar&n, and Ghani Kh&n went forth in haste to meet it.
Tolak Kh&n assembled a body of his servants and adherents,
and making a rapid night march fell upon Ghani E3i&n,^ and
made him prisoner. At length some persons intervened, and
obtained the freedom of Ghani £h&n. They took from him a
treaty and covenant that he would never again molest Tolak
Eh&n, but before Ghani Eh&n got back to K&bul, he broke his
covenant, and marched against Tolak IShkn with a strong force.
Tolak £h&n, however, was apprised of the movement, and fled
to the Court of the Emperor. Ghani Eh£n pursued him in
Tain for some distance, and then returned to E&bul.
Some little while afterwards Ghani Beg went out one day for a
stroll in the melon gardens, and the opportunity was seized by
[M&h Ghochak Begam] the mother of Mirz& Muhammad Haklm,^
in concert with Sh&h Wali Atka, Mirz& Faz&il Beg and his son
Abu-l Fath Beg, to enter the fort and close the gates against
Ohani Eh&n. On returning and finding the gates of the fortress
closed, Ghani Eh&n understood that the people had revolted
against him. Unable to do anything, he went off to the
Imperial Court. The mother of the prince then took the direc-
tion of affairs into her own hands. She appointed Mirz& Faz&iF
Beg, whom Mirz& E&mrdn had blinded, to the office of minister
(tffakdlaf), and his son Abti-1 Fath Beg was made his deputy.
But when in the distribution o{ the jdgirs and villages he (Abu-l
Fath) reserved the best for himself, and appropriated the worst
to the prince and his attendants. Sh&h Wali Atka, 'Ali Mu-
hammad Asp, and others, could not brook his unjust allotment.
In communication with the mother of the prince, they deter-
1 Wlule he was dnink and asleep. — Ahhar^ndmOy toI. ii. p. 233.
' Son of the Emperor Ham&y6n, then about ten yean of age. — Bad&finl.
* Ab<k-1 Fazl calla him «F&zil Beg," and says that although he was blind, <<in
matten of craft and oontnmacy, his whole body was eyes." He adds that he inter-
fered with his nephew in his dnties as goremor. — Akbar-ndmOj toI. ii. p. 231.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
283 NIZAMU-D DTN AHICAD.
mined to remoTe him. One night Abu-1 Fath came to the door
of his house in a state of intoxication and went down. Mfnui
Beg having seen this, despatched him with' one blow npon the
head with his sword. His &thery Faz&il Beg, endeavoured to
escape into the Haz&ra, bat some of the adherents of the prince
went in pursuit, and overtook and beheaded him. Sh&h Wali
Beg Atka, with the approval of the mother of the prince,
assumed the management of affairsi and gave himself the title
of'AdilShih.
When the report of these occurrences reached the ears of the
Emperor^ he appointed Mu'nim £h&a governor of £&bnl and
guardian (aid&k) of the young prince Mirz& Muhammad. He
also appointed Muhammad KuU SJi&n Birl&s, Husain Kh&n
brother of Shah&bu-d dtn Ahmad Eh&n, Timur Beg Uzbek, and
several other nobles to assist and support him. The mother of
the young prince, who was then ten years of age, assembled all
the forces she could, and taking the prince with her, she went,
with the intention of resisting by force of arms, to Jal&l&b&d,
known in old times by the name of Jus&(. There she awaited
Mu'nim Eh&n, who quickly marched against her, and defeated
and scattered her forces at the first attack. After this he
returned to Court. The Begam returned to Kabul, and sus-
pecting the designs of Sh&h ' Ali Atk^ against her, she caused him
to be put to death, and Haidar K&sim Eohbar was named wakU
of the mirzd in his stead.
Affairs of Mirzd SAarqfU^ din Susain.
Mirz& Sharafti-d din Husain was son of Khw&ja Mu'inu-d din,
son of Khw&ja J&wid Mahmud, son of Ehw&ja 'Abdu-lla, who
was a distinguished man among the KhwaJM^ and was the son
of N&siru-d din 'Abdu-Ua Ahrdr.^ When the Mirz& came to
Court, he was promoted to the dignity of Amtru^l umard^ and
received the jdgir of N&gor. There he was distinguished by his
^ See Blochmaim*8 Ain-% JMari^ toL L p. 322.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEAT-I ASBARr. 283
energetie labours. His father now retained from Mecca, and
received a right royal reception. After a while Mirz& Sharaf, by
the will of fate, and without any apparent reason or cause,
having had his mind perverted by designing men, fled towards
N4gor.i Hazrat Husain EuK Beg, son of Wall Beg Zd-l kadar,
a relation of the late S[hdn-kh&n&n Bair&m Eh&n, having on
account of his services been admitted to the order of nobility,
and dignified with the title of khdn^ now received a grant of the
jdglr of Mirzi Sharafu-d din Husain. Some of the principal
nobles, as Muhammad S&dik, Muhammad Euli Tughrhdni^
Mozafiar Mughal and Mirstk Bah&dur, wei'e directed to support
Husain Kuli Beg, and the command was given for them to
pursue and capture Mirz& Sharafu-d din. If he repented of his
unrighteous deeds, they were to soothe him and bring him to
Court ; but if not, they were to use their beet exertions to punish
his misconduct. When intelligence of the approach of Husain
Euli Beg Eh&n reached Mirz& Sharafii-d din, he left Tarkh&n
Diw&na, a trusty adherent, in Ajmir, and went off towards
J&lor.' The Imperial forces invested Ajmir, and after two or
three days Tarkh&n Diw&na capitulated.' The nobles then
hastened in pursuit of Sharafu-d din towards J&lor.
It so happened that just as Sharafu-d din reached J&lor, Sh&h
Ab6-1 Ma'&li was returning from Mecca to the Imperial Oourt,
and having had a meeting with Sharafu-d din, they concocted
together a rebellious scheme. Abu-1 Ma'&U was to march
against the people of Husain KuU Kh£n, who were in H&jipdr,^
and having disposed of him was to push on to K&bul and bring
Mirzi Muhammad Hakim to Hindust&n. Sharafu-d din on his
side was to do all he could to promote a rebellion. Abd-1 Ma'&ll
> "TowardB Ajmir and N&gor, which were I^b fiighraj* — Akbar^maf yol. ii.
p. 247.
> Both MSS. hare <«N&gor.'* But Abd-1 Fazl saya « towards Jfdor, whioh he
had got into bia power/* and the context shows him to he ngh.t.—Akbar-ndmOf
vol. ii p. 248.
' The fort of Mirtha also fell into the hands of the Imperial general.^-.^&ar.
ndma, vol. ii. p. 248.
* Hnsain Knli had left his wifes and family ihan.-^Akbar-ndmttf vol ii. p. 248.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
284 NIZXMU-D DFN AHMAD.
marched off, taking with him a partv of Sharafa-d din's men, and
when he approached H&jiptir, he learned that Ahmad Beg and
Sikandar Beg, relations of Husain Kuli Kh&n, had come out to
stop him. Thereupon he tamed in the direction of N&manl,
and upon reaching the fort of that place, he made Mir Kisd
the shikkddr prisoner, and seized all the money which he found
in the treasury, and divided it among his followers.^
After receiving intelligence of this, Husain EuK Kh&n sent
his brother Isma'il Euli Eh&n along with Muhammad S&dik
Eh&n in pursuit of Abu-1 Ma'&li. Upon reaching H&jipur, and
learning that Abu-1 Ma'&li had drawn off to Namaul, they took
Ahmad Beg and Sikandar Beg with them, and went in pursuit
of him. Twelve hos from Nimaul, the brother of Ab6-1 Ma'&Ii,
who was named Elhdn-z&da [Muhammad], and was also called
Sh&h Ldnd&n, left his jdgir^ and was on the way to join his
brother, but he was intercepted and made prisoner. Abu-1
Ma'&li fled from N&maul and went towards the Panj&b. Ahmad
Beg and Sikandar Beg were sent off with a detachment in hot
haste after htm. A body of the men under their command had
formerly served under Mirz& Sharafd-d din Husain, and these
men had bound themselves by an oath to desert Ahmad Beg
and Sikandar Beg whenever Ab(i-1 Ma'&U should be attacked,
and to go over to the latter. One of this party, D&na Euli by
name, slipped away and hastened to inform Abu-1 Ma'&Ii of the
conspiracy. Upon hearing it he placed himself in ambush in
a jungle by the side of the road, and when the two Begs came
up he fell upon them unawares. The conspirators then drew
their swords, and advanced against their own commanders, and
the other soldiers, seeing how matters stood, took to flight.
Ahmad Beg and Sikandar were left quite alone. They fought
most manfully, and killed several of their assailants, but were
eventually slain.
His Majesty was engaged in a hunting excursion at Mathura
when the news of this disaster reached him. He sent Bid&gh
1 « And plundered tbe town."— ^Ar^r-ntfiM, vol. ii. p, 262.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAKf. 285
'Kh&n, T&t&r Kh&n, Eumi Eh&n, and others, to follow Abu-1
Ma'dli, and he himself proceeded to Dehli, the seat of Govern-
ment {ddrt^l mulk)}
A remarkable occurrence has now to be mentioned. When
Sharafii-d din Hosain fled from Court to N&gor, he had a
slave, by name Eoka Ful&d, one of the slaves of his father,
who at all times secretly did everything in his power to
injure the Emperor. This wretched man came into the royal
camp, and was constantly on the watch for an opportunity.
When the Emperor returned from his hunting excursion, and
passing through the b&zdr of Dehli, came near to the College'
of Maham Anka, this bloodthirsty fellow shot an arrow at His
Majesty; but by the mercy of God, who watched over the
Emperor's safety, it did not inflict a severe wound, but merely
grazed the skin. The attendants of the Emperor instantly fell
upon the traitor, and with strokes of sword and dagger they sent
him to hell. The Emperor pulled out the arrow and rode on to
the palace. The wound was cured in a few days, a]id on the
6th Jumada-s s&ni he mounted his royal litter,' and proceeded
to ^ra, where he arrived on the 15th of the same month, in
the year 971 a.h., agreeing with the eighth year of the reign.
Ninth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year was Wednesday, 29th Eajab, 971
(13th March, 1564). When Abd-1 Ma^&li killed Ahmad Beg,
and found that the royal army was coming up in pursuit of him,
he was dismayed, and turning aside from the direct roads he
fled towards K&bul. When he approached K4bul, he wrote a
letter full of expressions of afibction and devotion for the late
Emperor, and sent it to Mah Chochak Begam (the Emperor's
1 He arriyed there on the 25th Jum&da-l awwal.~^A;dar-fi<fm<i, toI. ii. p. 264.
' Ab6-1 Fazl agrees, and says that the man stood near the College {Akdar-ndma,
vol. ii. p. 255) ; bnt Bad&dni (yol. ii. p. 62) says that the arrow was shot from the
roof of the College. He agrees that the wound was merely superficial (post-mdl)^ not
the serere wound, " nearly a span deep/' which Ab6-1 Fazl and Firishta describe.
• ^ICi , The Hindi singhdian " throne."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
286 NIZXMV-D DrN AHMAD.
widow). She Bent to invite him in» and received him with.
honour. She also gave him her daughter in marriage. Abu-1
Ma'&li now pushed himself forward, and took the direction of the
establishment of Prince Muhammad Hakim.
A party of malcontents, who were displeased with the treatment
they had received from M4h Chochak Begam, sneh as Shug6n,
son of Karracha £h&n, and Sh&dm&n, and others, leagued with
Abd-1 Ma^&li, and persuaded him that matters would never go
on well as long as the Begam lived. He fell in with their views,
and slew the unfortunate woman with a dagger. Then he got
into his hands the Prince Mirzd Muhammad Hakim, who was
of tender age, and took the direction of the government. He
seized upon Haidar E&sim Eohbar, who was the minister {wakkl)
of the Mirz&, and put him to death. He also imprisoned his
brother Muhammad K&sim. Hereupon TardI Muhammad Khfin,
B&k{ Muhammad Kh&n E&ksh&l, Husain Eh&n, and several
other adherents of the late Begam, conspired against him to
avenge her death. ''Abdi Sarmast informed Abu-1 Ma'&li of this
conspiracy, and he instantly armed a party of his supporters,
and went forth to destroy them. The conspirators cut their way
into the fort, and Abu-1 Ma^&lf pressed after them. Many on
both sides were killed, but at length Abu-1 Ma'&li succeeded in
driving them out of the fort, and they fled in all directions.
Muhammad K&sim, who was in confinement, obtained his
release, and went to Mirz& Sulaim&n, in Badakhsh&n. He
informed him of all that had passed at K4bul, and urged him
to march against the city. Mirz& Muhammad Hakim also sent
a person to Mirz& Sulaim&n, calling upon him for assistance.
The Mirz&, on hearing the state of affairs, assembled the forces
of Badakhshin, and with the approval of Ehurram Begam his
wife, marched against K&bul. Abd-1 Ma'&li, on his side, assem-
bled the forces of E&bul, and taking with him Mirz& Muhammad
Hakim, advanced to the river Ohorband. Both sides drew up
their forces, and the battle began. The Edbul men on the
right of Abu-1 Ma'&li were defeated by the BadakHsh&n forces,
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEAT.I AKBABr. 287
and began to retreat. He hastened up with some reinforcements
to support them, leaving Mirza Muhammad Hakim in chai^
of his servants. These men seized the opportunity to cross the
river and join Mirz& Sulaim&n. When this was discovered by
the K&bul forces, they were seized with panic, and every man
fled to his home.
When Abu-1 Ma^&li came back from his cfaaige, he was
dismayed to find no trace mther of Mirz& Hakim or of his
army, so he fled. The Badakhsh&n men pursued and over-
took him at the village of Gh&rik&r&n. He was brought to
the presence of Mirz& Sulaim&n, who, elated with his success,
went on to E&bul, taking Mirz& Muhammad Hakim with him.
Three days afterwards he sent Abti-1 Ma'&li, with his hands
bound behind his neck, to Mirz& Muhammad Hakim, and he
ordered him to be strangled in punishment of his crimes. This
happened on the night of the 17th Bamaz&n, 970 h. Mirz&
Sulaim&n now sent to Badakhsh&n for his daughter, and married
her to Mirz& Muhammad Hakim. After giving jdgirs in the
E&bul territory to many of his followers, and appointing Ummaid
^Ali, who was in his confidence, to the post of minister, he
returned to Badakhsh&n.
In the course of this year, Ehw&ja Muzafiar 'Ali Tarbati,
one of the old associates of Kh&n-kh&n&n Bair&m Eh&n, was
raised to the office of financial minister {wazdrat-i diwdn-i 'ah),
and received the title of Khdn.^
Conquest of the fort of Chundr.
The fort of Ghun&r was held by a slave of 'Adali, named
Fattu. He now wrote a letter offering to surrender it.* The
Emperor sent Shaikh Muhammad Ghaus and Asaf Eh&n to
1 AH*1 Fail plaoet thii appointmeiit at the beginaing^ of tbe eightli jear. —
Akhmr-ndma, ^L ii p. 260. See AU^i AkbaH, toI. i. p. 348.
* Ab6.1 Fail plaoea thii nmmder in the sixth year of the reigiL The Emperor,
OB his retani from Kam, dented Asaf Kh&n to besiege the fort, and this ftighteoed
Fattd into wahnditm^'--^JMar'ndiiuh toL ii. p. 190.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
288 lazAMU-B BrN ahmad.
receive the surrender of the fort. When it was delivered over,
they placed it in charge of Husain Kh&n Turkom&n. At this
Ghdzi Kh4n Sdr, formerly one of the nobles of 'Adali, but who
had for a time lived in allegiance to the Emperor, now that Asaf
£h&n was appointed to the government of Earra, took flight,
and went to the country of Panna. There he gathered some
men, and arrayed himself in rebellion. When A^saf Kh&n was
sent to Earra, Gh&zi Kh&n led his followers against him, but he
was defeated in battle by XaaS Kh&n, and killed upon the field.
JisaX Kh&n thus established his power and authority.
The couiitry of Garha-Eatanka was near to ^saf Eh&n, and
he formed the design of subduing it.^ The chief place of that
country is Chaur&garh. It is an extensive country containing
seventy thousand (Jiafldd hazar) flourishing villages.* Its ruler
was at this time a woman named Durgdvati, who was very
beautiful. When Asaf Eh4n heard the condition of this country,
he thought the conquest of it would be an easy matter, so he
marched against it with fifty thousand^ horse and foot. The
B&ni collected all her forces, and prepared to oppose the invader
with 700 elephants, 20,000 horsemen, and infantry innumerable.
A battle followed, in which both sides fought obstinately, but by
the will of fate the Il4n( was struck by an arrow, and fearing
lest she should fall alive into the hands of the enemy, she made
her elephant-driver kill her with a dagger. After the victory
Asaf Ehan marched against Chaur&garh. The son of the B&ni,
who was in the fort, came forth to meet him ; but he was killed,
and th^ fort was captured, and all its treasures fell into the
hands of the conquerors. A!saf Ehdn, after he had achieved this
^ See Extract from the Akbar-nAmaf infrd.
^ Abd-1 Faxl, Bad&tinf, and Fai2( all agree in this number, but it is a manifest
error. — Akbar^&ma, vol. ii., p. 264.
' The MSS. differ widely. One of them says Jive thousand, the other two Jifty
thousand. There are other discrepancies. Two of the MSS. omit the word "innu-
merable/* making the B&ni*s force to be '' 20,000 horse and foot " ; but they agree
in the incredible ^ 700 elephants." Firishta, moreover, gives '< 1500 elephants and
8000 horse and foot." — See Extract from the Tdrikh-i Alji^ ti^prd, p. 169.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKilT-I lEBABL 289
▼iotory and ftoqnired so much treasure, retamed, greatly elated^
to Karra, and took possession of his goyemniMit.
Journey of the Emperor to Narwar.
On the 12th Zi-1 ka^da, 971 H., oorresponding with the ninth
year of the reign, the Emperor left Agra, and went towards the
river Ghambal with the object of elephant hunting.^ In conse^
qoence of the heavy rains and the inundations, he had to halt
fifteen days, and when he did cross over one of his choice
elephants named Lakhna was drowned. When he came to the
vicinity of the town of Narwar he pitched his camp, for the
jungle hard by was an elephant haunt. * * * After they had
cleared that neighbourhood of elephants, he marched on towards
M&Iwa, and halted at Bewar.* Heavy rains compelled him to
remain two days in sight of that town. From thence he pro-
ceeded to S&rangpur, and again the heavy rains and floods
greatly distressed his escort. When he approached S&rangp6r,
Muhammad E&sim Eh&n Naishapdri the governor came forth
to meet him and presented tribute. Next day the Emperor pro-
ceeded onwai*ds towards Mandii.
^Abdu-Ua Khdn Uzbek was governor of Mandd, and as there
were sundry differences^ between him and the Emperor, he was
greatly alarmed at his approach, and consequently fled off towards
Gujar&t. When the Emperor was informed of his flight, he
sent Mukim Kh&n, one of his chief nobles, to 'Abdu-lla, to
advise and reassure him. Although Mukim Kh&n urged and
persuaded, his words had no effect, for ''Abdu-lla thought that
the object of the Khan was to detain him with words and stories
till the royal forces had arrived and secured the roads. So he
left Mukim Khfin and fled ; and the Eh&n went back and re-
ported his want of success.
The Emperor's anger was roused, and he gave orders for a force
to be sent to arrest ^Abdu-Ua's progress. The Emperor himself
^ According to Abd-l Fazl, tbe real object waa to cbecV tbe proceedinga of
'Abda-Ua Kh&n.— ^it^ar-ndmo, vol. ii. p. 279. * A yery doubtful name.
VOL. T. 19
Digitized by VjOOQIC
290 NIZAMTT-D DFN AHMAD.
followed, and on reaching Mandd intelligence arrived that his ad-
vanced force was engaged in action with ^Abdu-lla, so he pressed
on with all speed* When ^Abdu-Ua saw that some of his most
faithful followers had fallen, and heard that the Emperor was
near at hand, he left his baggage and soldiers and hastened off.
The Imperial forces pursued him as far as the country of ^i,^
on the confines of Grujar&t, and drove him awaj from his wives
and elephants. He then went to Oh&ngiz Kh&n in Oujar&t.
This Gh&ngiz Kh&n was a slave of Sultdn Mahmud of Gujar&t,
after whose death he had obtained the government of the
country. The royal forces which had captured the horses and
elephants and wives of 'Abdu-Ua then turned back to ^li, where
they were received with honour.
The Imperial army then moved, and on the new moon of
ZI-1 hijja, 791 h., reached Mandd. The zaminddra of the neigh-
bourhood came in to pay their allegiance, and met with a
gracious reception. Mir&n Mub&rak Sh&h, ruler of Kh&ndesh,
sent a letter and suitable presents by the hands of ambassadors
to the Emperor. After some days the ambassadors received
permission to return, and ^farmdn was sent to Mir&n Mub&rak
Sh4h directing him to send any one of his daughters whom
he thought worthy to attend upon the Emperor. 'Itim&d Kh&n
was also sent along with the ambassadors. When Mub&rak
Sb&h received this gi*acious communication, he was greatly de-
lighted, and he sent his daughter with a suitable retinue and
paraphernalia to His Majesty, esteeming it a great favour to be
allowed to do so. Whilst the Emperor remained at Mandu,
Kh4n Kuli,^ a servant of ^Abdu-lla Khan, who was now in
Hindia,' and Mukarrab Kh6n, one of the nobles of the Dekhin,
in compliance with the royal command, came in with their fol-
lowers, and had an audience. Mukim Kh&u, who had exhibited
vigour and ability in this expedition, received the title of Shuj&'
Kh&n.
^ ** The country of Al, a large territory {^mhtkaff^ in M&lwa."— T. Alfl.
« "J&n'Ali."— r. ^//f.
* « On the holders of Malwa."— T. MJi, It Ues on the left bank of the Nerhadda.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT.I AKBAEI. 291
In Maharram, ft72 (August^ 1564), tlie Imperial camp moved
from Mandu, and was pitched in sight of the town of N&Icha.^
Earra Bah&dar Eh&n was appointed governor of Mandu, and an
order was made directing a party of the Imperial followers who
remained behind in Mandu to stay in that province along with
Karra Bah&dar, and zealoaslj serve His Majesty. Two days
after, the camp moved towards Agra, and upon reaching Ujjain,
it remained there four days, in consequence of heavy rain. In
four days' march from thence it reached S&rangpdr, and in a
week afterwards it arrived at the pargana of Eher&r, within
sight of the town. By regular stages it reached Sipri. Here
ihe scouts brought in news of a herd of elephants, in which there
was one very large animal.' The royal servants went in chase of
them, and captured the whole of them. Proceeding by way of
Narwar and Gwalior^ the Emperor reached Agra on the 3rd
Babi'u-1 awwaL In the course of this year the Emperor had
twins borne to him, one of whom was named Hasan,, the other
Husain ; but they lived only a month.
After His Majesty returned from Mandu, and while he was
enjoying himself at Agra, he often rode out to E&kr&ni,' a village
in the vicinity of the capital, which was remarkable for the
purity of ita air and the excellence of its water. He deemed
this a suitable site for a palace, so he ordered one to be built.
In a short time fine houses arose, and a great town sprung up,
which was called Nagar-chin.
Account of Khwdja Mu*azzam.
Ehw&ja Mu'azzam was maternal uncle of the Emperor. He
was son of ^Ali Akbar, and a descendant of Shaiku-1 Isl&m
Ahmad J&m. This person had been guilty of several dis-
graceful actions during the reign of the Emperor Hum&ydn,
* Five or six miles north of Mand^
* '* In the present day there are not such forests near Sipri as to afford shelter for
dxoyes of elephanU,"— Briggs, Firishta, vol. il p. 216.
» "Lagr&ni" in one MS. ; Bad&(ini (vol. ii. p. 80) has << Oahr&wali." ^JUi*
•^T.M/i. jKU^— ^ifciar-wdwtf, ToL ii p. 298. ^
Digitized by VjOOQIC
292 KIZAMtr-D DHf AHITAD.
who had fell constrained to speak about and censare hia
offences to his son and successor. His unseemly conduct at
length compelled the Emp^tor to hanish him, whereupon he
went to Oujar&t. From thence he proceeded to Mecca, and
after staying there some time he returned to the Court of Hn-
m&jtin. Upon the demise of the crown, Bair&m Khim Eh&n-
khdn&n became the ruling power in the State, and he, knowing
the character of the Ehw&ja, procured an order for his exile^
After his banishment, the Ehw&ja stayed for a while in Oojar&t,
but subsequently returned to the Court of the Emperor. Bair&m
Eh4n then countenanced him, and he received some degree of
attention. Upon the disgrace of Bair&m Eh&n, the Emperor
took compassion on the Khw&ja, and gave him some districts in
jdgir. But the Ehw&ja^s perverse and evil nature got the better
of him, and he was guilty of some disgraceful deeds. To
mention one — There was a woman named Fatima attached to
the harem of the late Emperor, and the Ehw&ja had taken to
himself a daughter of hers named Zuhra Agha. After some
time he formed the design of putting her to death. Upon her
mother being informed of this fact, she hastened to make it
known to the Emperor, and to crave his protection. The
Emperor was just about to start on a hunting excursion, and
he assured the poor mother that he would take measures to
rescue her daughter from the Ehw&ja. Accordingly he sent
T&hir Muhammad Eh&n Mir-i fardghat and Bustam Eh&n to
give the Ehw&ja notice that the Emperor was about t<o visit him.
When T&hir Muhammad reached his house, he was so enraged
tliat he killed the poor woman. As soon as the Emperor arrived,
and was informed of the Ehw&ja's cruel actions, which cried
for punishment, he gave orders to his followers to well thrash
him, and then to put him in a boat and souse him several times
in the river.^ After this he sent him a prisoner to the fort of
Gwalior, where he died in confinement.
1 Ab(&-1 Fail lays the Emperor had him and his Tile anociatec bound hand ftad
foot and cast into the river. Although immersed several tiroes, he would not drown,
and wheneyer he came up he abused the Emperor. He died insane.— uliter-ndaM^
ToL ii. p. 276.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TiLBAKiH*.! AEBABr. 298
Mtnd Sulaimdn*8 Third Visii to KiM.
It has been before narrated how Mirzi Salaim&n came to the
reaciie of Hirz& Mahammad Hakim, and bow, after overthrowing
Sh&h Abfi-l Ma^&li, he gArejdgirs to his own adherents, and then
retnmed home. Hirz& Muhammad Hakim and his people, being
greatly annoyed by these Badakhsh&nis, drove them oat of
E&buL Mirz& Snlaim&n then came again with a large army to
take revenge for this expulsion. Mirz& Mahammad Hakim left
B&ki K&ksh&l in command of his followers at K&bul, and went
off himself to Jal&l&b&d and Parsh&war. Upon reaching the
river M&r&n,^ Mirz& Sulaim&n learnt how Mirz& Mahammad
Hakim had abandoned E&bul, and gone to Jal&l&b&d.
Mirzi Mahammad Hakim went on from Parshiwar to the
shores of the Indus, and from thence forwarded to the Emperor a
letter containing a statement of his grievances. Mirz& Sulaim&n,
on learning that Mirz& Muhammad Hakim had made an appeal
to the Emperor, and had left Parsh&war, stationed one of his
adherents named Kambar ¥rith three hundred men at Jal&l&bU,
and went towards E&bul.
When the statement of Mirzi Mahammad Hakim reached the
Imperial Gourt, an order was given directing all the nobles and
jdgirddrs of the Panjib (such as Mahammad £uli Kh&n Birl&s
Kh&n-i Eal&n, Eutbu-d din Muhammad Eh&n, TSjon&l Eh&n
Oakhar, and others) to assemble their forces and march to the
assistance of Mirzi Muhammad Hakim. These nobles, in
obedience to the command, proceeded to the Indus, and joined
Muhammad Hakim. Then they began their march to recover
E4buL On reaching JaUUb&d they sent Mirz& Eas&n into the
place to summon Eambar, Mirz& Sulaim&n'^s representative, to
surrender; but that doomed one would not submit, so the
Imperial forces attacked the fort. They took it in an hour,
and put Eambar and all his three hundred men to the sword.
Two men were allowed to go and carry the intelligence to
» One HS. Mji amply «<lfae riro."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
294 NIZAMT7.D DfN AHMAD.
Mirz& Sulaim&n, and the head ot Eambar, with the news of
the capture of the city, was sent to Bdki K&ksh&l at E&bul.
Mirz& Sulaim&n, on hearing of the &n of Jalal&b&d, and
the approach of the royal forces, fled to Badakhshan. Mirzi
Muhammad Hakim, escorted by the Imperial nobles, returned
to K&bul, and again assumed the Government. The nobles,
in obedience to the orders which they had received from the
Emperor, then returned to their jdgirs^ excepting £han-i Kal&n,
who had been appointed guardian of Mirz& Muhammad Hakim.
Shortly afterwards the Mirz&, without consulting Eh&n-i Kal&n,
gave his sister, who had formerly been married to Sh&h Abu-1
Ma'41i, to be the wife of Ehw&ja Husain Nakshabandi, a de-
scendant of Ehw&ja Bah&u-d din. Presuming upon the im-
portance he had acquired by this marriage, the £hw&ja began
to interfere in the afiairs of the Mirza, and to call Kh&n-i Kal&n
to account. The Kh&n was a hot-tempered man, and would not
endure this, so he left E&bul, and went to Lahore without taking
leave. Then he made a report of what had occurred to the
Emperor.
Tenth Year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Sunday, 9ih
Sha'b&n, 972 h. (U March, 1565 a.d.}. At the beginning of this
year His Majesty wished to go elephant hunting. Scouts were
accordingly sent out to seek for the animals, and to report when
they found them. On the 1st Kajab, 972, the Emperor himself
started for I^arwar and Qarha by way of Dhulp6r. Upon
reaching Narwar, he pitched his camp. The scouts then reported
that there were several herds of elephants in the neighbouring
jungles. His Majesty speedily went to the jungle, and returned
after capturing all the elephants. Another day the scouts
brought news to the camp that there were many elephants in
a desert about eight koa distant. The royal servants started off,
and towards the close of the day they found the animals, every
one of which they captured* They drove them towards the fort
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKXT-I AKBARr. 295
of P&nwa, where they arrived in the middle of the night. Three
hundred and fifty elephants were taken that day. From thence
they returned to the royal camp, which was in the vicinity of
Garha. There it remained nearly twenty days. The hot season
now came on, and the unhealthy winds blew, and many men in
the camp became weak and ill, so His Majesty returned to Agra.
Building of the Fort of Agra.
In this year the command was given for building a new fort
of hewn stone at Agra, instead of tlie old citadel, which was of
brick, and had become ruinous. The foundation was accordingly
laid, and in four years the fortress was completed.^ In these
days it has no equal in the world. The walls are ten gaz in
thickness, and are built of stone and mortar. The stones are cut
on both sides, and are joined with the greatest nicety. The
height of the fort is more than forty gaz. There is a moat dug
all round, and faced on both sides with stone and mortar. It is
twenty gaz wide and ten ffaz deep, and water is conducted into it
from the river Jumna. The cost of this building was nearly
three krors of tankaa} The date of foundation of its gates is
found in the words " bindi dar-i bihiaht " (974 h.).
Rebeltion of *Ali KuU Khdn^zamdn, Ibrdhim Khan, and Sikandar
Khdn.
In consequence of the severe proceedings against 'Abdu-lla
Kh&n Uzbek, which have been narrated above, an opinion got
abroad that the Emperor had a bad opinion of the Uzbeks.
When the Emperor went to Narwar elephant hunting, Ashraf
Kh&n Mir-munshi was sent to Sikandar Eh&n, to conciliate him
with gracious promises of the Emperor's favour, and to bring him
to Court. As Ashraf Kh&n approached Oudh, which was the
1 The work wai carried on under the direction of Efisim Kb&n Mlr-i harr o hahr^
tnd was completed in eight jeKn.^Akbar-ndmd, toI. ii. p. 311.
* An aneaement in money amounting to the ralae of three nr» of grain petjarib
of land was imposed, and oollecton and officers {tawdeAi) were appointed to realize it
from ikeJdflrddrt.'-BtMtaalf yoL ii. p. 7i.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
296 NIZAMU-D DrK AHMAD.
jdgir of Sikandar Eh&n, the latter eame out io meet him, and
conducted him to his house with a.U due ceremony. He sub-
mitted to the Emperor'^s command, and acted as if he meant to
go to Court. But after some days he said to Ashraf Eh&n,
*' Ibr&him Kh&n is a much greater man than I, and he is in this
neighbourhood ; the best thing we can do is to go to him, and
get him to acquiesce in your demand. We will then go to
Court together." Upon this understanding they went to the
town of Sar&war,^ which was ihQ jdgir of Ibr&him £h&n.
When Sikandar Khin and Ibrihim KJian met, they took coun-
sel together^ and resolved to consult with 'All Kuli Kh&n, who
was one of their own tribe, and was the Emperor's representatiye
in their part of the country. In pursuance of this resolution,
and with the concurrence of Ashraf Kh&n, they proceeded to
Jamipur, the jdgir of Kh&n-zam&n. After consultation their
judgment was adverse to the course proposed, and they deter-
mined to rebel. They improperly detained Ashraf Kh&n, and then
broke into open rebellion. Ibr&him Kh&n and Sikandar Kh&n
went to Lucknow, full of hostile designs. Kh&n-zam&n and his
brother went to Karra M&nikpdr, and there began their revolt.
Sh&ham Kh&n Jalair, Sh&h Bid&gh Kh&n, Amir Kh&n,
Muhammad Amin Diw&na, Sult&n Kuli Kh&ld&r, with all the
jdgirddra of his neighbourhood, Sh&h T&hir Badakhshi, the
brother of Sh&h Khalilu-Ua, and other nobles, being informed of
these rebellious proceedings, marched out against the rebels, and
fought against them. In the course of the fighting Muhammad
Arain fell from his horse, and was made prisoner by the rebels.
Sh&ham Kh&n and Bid&gh Kh&n exerted themselves most
strenuously, but as the forces of the rebek more than doubled
their own, they were obliged to retreat and shut themselves up
in the fort of Namfkh&,* firom whence they sent an account to the
Emperor.
1 ** Snrhaip^."— BadMni, toL u. |i. 75. Akbar^dmrn, toL iL p. tl4. 8iir«
haipUr is in the aarkdr of Jaimptlr. — ^^of s Olottaiy, toL ii. p. 113.
* Yar. ** Kamakha." *• Nim-kah&r."— Bad46ni. ^ NitakMxr^Akbm^mimt, vol.
iL p. 815.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AEBA&r. 297
JOukorwrnia and hia brother Bah&dar £h&n now ahowed
tkair dispoaitiona, and began to plander the country in their
neighbourhood. Majntin Kh&n K&ksh&l,^ the jdgirddr of that
quarter, ahat himself up in the fort <^ M&nikpur. He sent to
inform XaaS Eh&n £hw&ja 'Abda-1 Majid, governor of Garha^
of the state of affairs, and summoned him to his side. Leaving
a detaehment in charge of the country of €ku*ha, ii^af Kh&n
proceeded with a strong force to Kanra, which was his own j'dgir.
There he divided, as a bounty among the soldiers, the treasures
of Chaur&garh which had fallen into his hands. He also sent
a laig^ sum to Majndn Eh&n. JCb9£ Eh&n and Majnun Ehfin
took a bold course, and went forth to confront the rebels, and
sent a report to the Emperor of the position*
When the statements of the amin reached the Emperor at his
encampment, he resolved to punish these attempts. He ordered
Mu'nim Eh&n Eh&n-kh&n&n to march in advance with a strong
force, and to cross over the river at Eanauj, to keep the enemy
in check. He himself remained behind a few days to collect and
organize his forces. In the month of Shaww&l he crossed over
the Jumna, and marched to chastise the rebels. Upon approach-
ing Kanauj, Mu'nim Eh&n came forth to meet him, bringing
with him Eiy& Eh&n Gang, who had joined the rebels, and
begged forgiveness for him. The Emperor pardoned his crime,
and restored him to his former position. He remained ten days
waiting for an opportunity to cross the river.
When the waters subsided, intelligence was brought that
Sikandar Eh&n, heedless of what was to happen, was still in
Lucknow. Thereupon His Majesty left, Ehw&ja Jah&n, Mu«
zaffiir Eh&n, and Mu'in Eh&n in charge of the camp, while he
himself started off at midnight with a valiant body of men to
march against the rebel with all speed. That night and the
next day he struggled through all obstacles without taking rest,
and on the following morning came in sight of Sikandar at
Lucknow. As soon as Sikandar heard of his approach^ he hastily
^ Bee Blochnuuu's JTM-i Aktw^ij vol. L p. 869.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
298 KIZAHU-D DIN AHMAD.
abandoned Lucknow and fled. The horses of the Emperor^s
force were quite worn out with fatigue, so Sikandar made his
escape, and went off unmolested to £h&n-zaman and Bah&dur
Kh&n. They also were now alarmed, and retreated from before
Asaf Eh&n to Jaunpur. They marched fi'om thence, and
sending forward their adherents, they crossed the river at the
ferry of Narhan, and halted on the other side of the river.
The Emperor sent on Yusuf Muhammad £h&n^ in advance from
Lucknow, and himself followed close after him. He encamped
in the neighbourhood of Jaunpdr, and there Asaf Kh4n and
Majntin Eh&n came to pay their respects, and were graciously
received. Asaf Kh&n brought with him some costly offerings,
which were accepted. Next day his army, which had been got
together by means of the treasures of Garha, and numbered five
thousand horse, was drawn out in the plain and reviewed by
His Majesty, who expressed his royal satisfaction. On Friday,
the 12th ZI-1 hijja, the royal forces entered the citadel of Jaun-
pdr. Orders were given to Asaf Khkn and other great nobles
to cross over the Ganges at the ferry of Narhan, where ^Ali
EuU Eh&n and his followers had passed, and then to go to
confront the rebels, and act according to circumstances. Asaf
Khan, in obedience to orders, crossed the Ganges with the force
under his command.
Between "All Euli Eh&n-zam&n and Sulaim^n Kir&ni Afgh&n,
ruler of Bengal, there was a strong alliance and identity of
interest ; it was therefore deemed expedient to send an envoy to
Sulaim&n, in order to forbid his rendering assistance to Kh&n-
zam&n. H&jf Muhammad Eh&n Sist&ni, a man remarkable for
prudence, was accordingly sent. When he reached the fort of
Boht&s, some Afgh&n chie&, who were in league with ^Ali Kali
Kh&n, arrested him and sent him to 'Ali Kuli. The H&ji was
on very friendly terms with the Kh&n, who was greatly pleased
to see him, and did his utmost to treat him with respect and
honour. The Kh&n thought it advisable to make the H&ji the
1 Son of the Ute Atka Kh&n.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT.I AKBARf. ^WBfP 299
medium of seeking forgiveness for his offences, and determined
to send his mother along with the Haji to make intercession at
Court. The result of this proceeding will be hereafter narrated.
Orissa,
The B&ja of Orissa, one of the divisions of the province of
Bengal, was a powerful chief, and kept a strong hand over all
the surrounding country. The Emperor sent Husain Eh&n
Ehaz&nchi and Mah&p&tar, who was an accomplished master of
Bindi music, on an embassy to the B&ja, holding out great
promises of favour and distinction to induce him to prevent
Sulaim&n Eh^ Afgh&n from rendering any assistance to "^Ali
Kuli Ehdn. After honourably entertaining Husain Eh&n and
Mah&p&tar for four months, he sent them back to Court with
several fine elephants and other splendid presents. This country
of Orissa is an extensive territory, of which the capital is Jagan-
n&th — Js^ann&th being an idol which gives name and renown to
the city.
FUght of A^aqf Khdn to Oarha.
After Asaf Eh&n had joined the Emperor and shown his
forces, Muzaffar Eh&n showed hostility towards him, and in-
duced some persons to bring charges against him in respect of
the plunder of Garha. He himself also alarmed KssS Eh&n
with some significant observations. This filled the heart of Asaf
Eh&n with suspicion «nd anxiety. When he was made com-
mander of the forces, and was sent against ^Ali Euli Eh&n, he
seized the opportunity, and at midnight went off with his brother
Wazir Eh&n, and his party, towards Earra. Next day the chief
nobles, without delay, communicated the &ct of his flight to the
Emperor, and the Emperor appointed Mu'nim Eh&n to succeed
him in the command. He also sent Shuj&'at Eh&n with a
detachment in pursuit of A^saf Eh&n, to chastise him for his
conduct. When Shuj&'at Eh&n reached M&nikpur, he found
that Asaf Eh&n had gone to Earra, and intended to proceed
Digitized by VjOOQIC
300 NIZiCMU.D BFN AHMAD.
from thenee to Gfarba-Eataiika.^ Sbuj&'at Kb&n emUarked his
men in boat4i, intending to cross the river, and Xsaf Kh&n, being
informed of tbis, turned back to tbe river-bank, and reacbed it
as tbe boats arrived. A great straggle ensued, in whieb Aisaf
Eb&n succeeded in preventing tbe landing of Sbuj&'at Kb&n,
wbo was obliged to return to bis own side at night&ll. In the
course of the night, Asaf Kh&n resumed bis flight, and next
morning Sbuj&'at Kb&n crossed the river in pursuit ; but finding
tbe attempt to overtake him hopeless, he fell back and rejoined
the Emperor at Jaunpur,
Mission of Kalij Khdn to the Fori of BoMds.
This fort is situated in Bih&r, and in height and strength
excels all tbe fortresses of Hindust&n. Tbe surface of the bill
upon which the fort is built is more than fourteen kos in length,
and its width is three kos^ and the height from the plain to the
battlements is about half a kos.* From tbe time of Sher Kb&n
Afgh&n it remained in the hands of the Afgh&ns, until the time
when Sulaim&n Eir&ni became ruler of Bengal Fath Eb&n Tibati
then seized upon it, and refused to submit to Sulaim&n. In tbe
year 972 h., Sulaim&n collected an army, and in the expectation
of the help of 'Ali £ull Eh&n marched against Boht&s, and
laid si^e to it.
When the Imperial forces marched in that direction against
Kh&n-zam&n, Fath Eb£n, seizing upon this favourable chance,'
sent his brother Husain Kb&n to the Emperor with rich
presents, and with a message in which he said that tbe fort
belonged to the Emperor, and that be would send him the
keys as soon as the Imperial camp was pitched at Jannpdr.
^ Near JabalpAr, in Central India. See a note in BIoclimann'B Aln^i Akbarf^
jol I p. S67.
* Agriculture ii carried on within the fortren, and water is so abandant that if a
peg IB driyen into the gronndi or a hole is dug for a fire, water is ererywhere found.
— Badfttinf, toL ii. p. 78.
' Abd-1 Fazl says that Fath Ehfin having professed all^:iance, the Emperor sent
EalQ Kh&n to arrange matters. He was so far successful that Fath Kh&n sent hii
brother with KaUj Kh&n to wait upon Akbar.— uil^Mr^n^nui, yol. il p. 2S6.
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TABAKAT-I AKfiARf. 801
Salaim&n, on being infbimed of the approach of the Imperial
forces, raised the siege. Fath Kh4n being thus relieved of
his adversary, brought into the fort all the provisions he could
collect. Repenting of having sent his brother on the mission,
he now -wrote to him directions to make his escape, and come
into the fort, which -was well stored. When the Emperot
encamped at Jannpdr, Husain Kh&n requested that some one
might be sent with him to receive the keys of the fort. Kalfj
Kh&n was accordingly sent to receive the keys from Fath Kh&n,
and bring them to the Emperor. But when EaUj Eh&n reached
Boht&s, Fath Eh&n affected to comply, and detained him some
days. Kalij Eh4n at length discovered the duplicity of Fath
Eh&n, and returned to Court unsuccessful.
Proceedings of 'Ali Kutt Khdn {KMn-zamdn).
When 'Ali Euli Eh&n faced the Imperial forces at the ferry
of Narhan, he sent his brother Bah&dur Eh£n, in company with
Sikandar Eh&n, to the country of Sarw&r,^ in order to stir up
a rebellion in that country. When this news reached His
Majesty's ears, he issued orders for several of the chief nobles^
sudi as Sh&h Bid&gh Eh&n and his son 'Abdu-1 Matlab Eh&u
Eiy& Eh&n and * * * to march against Sikandar and Bah&dur
Eh&n, under the command of Mir Mu'izu-1 Mulk, who was a
descendant of the Saiyids of Meshhed, and was renowned for
his valour.^
It has been already mentioned that Eh&n-kh&n&n (Mu^nim
Eh&n) was sent to take the place of Asaf Ehan in command
of the army, which confronted Eh&n-zam&n at the ferry of
Narhan. Between Eh&n-kh&n&n and Eh&n-zam&n there was an
old and warm friendship, and when they were thus opposed to
each other, a correspondence was opened, and it was agreed that
> So in the M8S., and lo written aUo hy Bad&6ni and Ab6-1 FasL It would
therefore leem to be another name of Snrharptfr. See note n^rd, p* 290.
* Bad&dnf (vol. ii. pp. 70, 80), on the eontrarj, speakB of hie incapacitj, and ii
ttreaatie about the impraeticid temper of the people of Meshhed. Bee BloahmaBn'f
Abt^ JUtbari, yol. L p. 881.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
802 KIZAHXT-D DTK AHMAD.
Kh&n-zani&n shoold wait upon Kh&n-kh&n^n to- discuss the
terms of peace. The negociations lingered on for four or five
months, and warlike operations were suspended.
The Emperor then sent Khw&ja-jah&n and Darb&r Kh&n to
the army, to ascertain and report if this cessation of hostilities
were advisable, and if not to order an immediate advance of the
Imperial forces over the river against the rebels. When Khw&ja-
jah&n and Darbfir Khkn reached the army, Khan-zaman resolved
to profit by their arrival, and having offered his congratulations
he brought forward his proposals of peace. After many com-
munications and much correspondence, it was agreed that Khfin-
zam&n and Ibr&him Eh&n on one side, and Khw&ja Jah£n and
Darb&r Kh&n on the other side, should have an interview in
boats in the middle of the river.* After a long discussion it was
determined that Kh&n-zam&n should send his mother^ 'AH Eh&n,
and Ibr&Iiim Khkn his uncle, to the Court of the Emperor, to ask
pardon for his offences. Upon receiving forgiveness the Kh£n
and his brother and Sikandar Kh&n were to go to Guurt. Eh&n-
zaman was also to send with his mother some elephants which
he possessed. These matters being agreed upon, Kh&n-zam&n
returned to his camp. Kh&n-kh&n&n and KhwajVjah&n wrote
a statement of the settlement, and sent it by Darb&r Eh&n to
the Emperor. Next day 'Ali Kuli Khfin sent his mother, and
Ibr&him Kh&n, and the elephants in charge of Mir H&di his
Sadr^ and Niz&m Xki^ one of his confidants. Ehdn-kh&nfin
and Khw&ja-jah&n took them and the elephants, and proceeded
to Court to ask formveness for Ehan-zam&n.
Just at this time accounts arrived of the operations which
Mir Mu'izu-1 Mulk and the other nobles were carrying on
against Bah&dur Eh&n and Sikandar, whom Eh&n-zam&n had
sent to create disturbances and make a diversion in the sarkdr
^ AM-l Fazl condemns Eh&n-kh&n&n's simplicity, says that it was he who met
Eh&n-xam&n on the riYer and settled the terms of peace, and that at his reoom-
mendation the Emperor sent Khwfcja-jah&n to reassure Kh<in-sam&n.— ^Jk60r'»d«iay
vol. ii. p. 326. But Bad&6nl states (vol. ii. p. 79) that Eh&n-kh&n&n and Shw&ja-
jah&n went together to the meeting, attended by three or four others.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEAT-I AEBARr. 303
of Sarw£r. When intelligence of the approach of the royal
forces reached them, they halted where they were, and sent
persons to Mir Mu*iza-1 Mulk to assure him that they had no
wish to contend against him, and entreated him to be the
mediator to obtain their forgiveness from the Emperor. They
promised to send the elephant which they had as an offering,
and to return to their duty upon pardon being vouchsafed to
them. Mu'izu-1 Mulk sent to say that their offences could be
purified only by the sword. Bah&dur Kh&n again sent a person
to Mu''izu-l Mulk to propose that he should wait upon him,
and discuss the matter. Mu'izu-1 Mulk agreed to this, and went
to the border of his. camp, whither Bah&dur Kh&n came to meet
him, and to make his propositions of peace. But Mu'izu-1 Mulk
would hear of nothing but war, so Bah&dur Kh&n returned
disappointed, and resolved to make ready for battle.
Lashkar Eh&n Mir Bakhshi and B&j& Todar MaP now arrived
with reinforcements for the royal artny,' and Bah&dur Kh&n and
Sikandar Kh&n renewed their proposals of peace, and asked for
a delay until it was ascertained what answer was given by
the Emperor to the mother of Kh&n-jah&n and to Ibr&him
£h&n, who had been sent to sue for forgiveness. But Mu'izu-1
Mulk was so eager for war' that he would not listen to their
words, and so brought upon himself defeat.
Mu'izu-1 Mulk drew out his forces for battle, and sent on his
1 R&J& Todar Mai, the celebrated financier and administrator, was a Ehatri and
a native of Lahore. His father died when the 8on was quite yonng, and left no
provision for him. The yonng man entered life as a writer, but he soon rose from
that humble position, and was employed by Sher Sh&h in superintending the
erection of New Bohtfes (tM/>rd, p. 114). It was under the able government
of Sher Sh&h that his natural talents were trained and doTeloped, so that he was
afterwards of inestimable service to Akhar, and made a' name which still remains
famous. This is the first time the Tabakdt mentions him, but henceforward he is
one of the most prominent and active of all the able subordinates of Akbar. He
died on the 1 1th day of the year 998 (10 Not. 1589).
* ** They were sent to hasten on a decision either for peace or war." — Bad&iini,
ToL ii. p. 80.
' *' Ma*i2 was all fire, and Rfij& Todar Mai poured on oil and naphtha."— Bad&6n!,
ToL iu p. 80.
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304 NizAMtr-0 Bnr ahmad.
advanced guard under Muhammad Amin Diwifina, Sallm Kh&n,
'Abdu-1 Matlab Kh&n, Beg Mdrin £h&n, and other vetona
soldiers ; he himself took post with the main body. On the other
side Sikandar had command of the advance, and Bahidur of
the centre. In this order they advanced, and a vrarm action
ensued. The royal forces defeated the advanced division nnder
the command of Sikandar. Muhammad T&r, his son-in-law, was
killed, and he himself fell back to the Black Biver, which was in
his rear. Many of his soldiers were drowned in the river, and
many others died by the sword. The victorious forces than broke
up in search of plunder. Mu'izu-l Mulk, with a few men, kept
his position, and Bah&dur until now did not stir from his post.
But now he seized the favourable moment, attacked Mu'izu-l
Mulk, and drove him from his position. Muhammad B&ki Kh&n
and other of the amirs^ under pretence of securing the baggage,
and some others, treacherously withdrew themselves and stamped
themselves with disloyalty. Sh&h Bid&gh Kh&n, observing the
condition of affairs, hastened forward, and in the heat of the
fight was unhorsed. His son ^Abdu-1 Matlab Kh&n rushed
forward to rescue his father ; but just at that juncture a party
of the enemy made a charge and took Bid^h Kh&n prisoner,
and it was only by dint of great exertion that ^Abdu-1 Matlab
made his escape. Mir Mu'izu-l Mulk was compelled to turn hii
back and flee. B&j& Todar Mai and Lashkar Kh4n, who were
in reserve, struggled valiantly till night, and maintained their
position ; bat as the centre had been driven away, their efforts
were fruitless.
Next day all the defeated forces assembled in one place,^ and
made for Kanauj, after sending a report of the engagement to
His Majest}'.
It has already been related how Kh&n-kh&n&n conducted the
mother of Kh&n-zam&n and Ibr&him Kh&n, with Mir H&di Sadr
and Niz&m Ak&, to the Court of the Emperor. Ibr&hfm Kh&n,
with uncovered head and with a sword and shroud upon his
1 '< At Shergarh.*'~Bad&QDi, toI. ii. p. 72.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABASiCT-I AKBABT. 805
neck, stepped forward, and Eh&n-kh&n&n entreated forgivenesB.
He urged that the services of Kh&n-zam&n and his brother to
the Imperial throne were manifest to all men^ and the services
they had rendered were invaluable. By the influence of their
destiny they had now been guilty of an offence ; but he trusted
that the boundless mercy and kindness of His Majesty would
look with an eye of tenderness upon the faults of such useful
servants.
When this old servant thus besought forgiveness for past
offences with a &ce full of hope, the Emperor, out of the
kindness that he felt for £h&n-kh&n&u, said, ^' For your sake,
I forgive their offences, but I am not satisfied that they will
remain faithful." Ehan-kh&nan then inquired what the order
was as regarded their jdgirs^ and His Majesty replied, " As I
have pardoned their offences, what question can there be about
their jdgira ? But so long as I remain in this neighbourhood
they must not come over the river. When I return to the
capital, they must send their vakils there, and farmdna for their
jdgira shall then be issued, under which they may take posses-
sion/^ Ehan-kh&nan cast a look of joy to heaven, and sent the
good news of the pardon to the mother of Kh&n-zaman. By
command of the Emperor, the sword and shroud were taken off
the neck of Ibr&him Kh&n. Kh&n-zam&u's mother immediately
sent messengers to Sikandar and Bah&dur Kh&n, to carry the
glad tidings of the pardon, and to inspire them with hope. She
also advised them to send directly to Court the elephants which
they possessed. Sikandar and Bah&dur were greatly delighted
at this information, and sent the elephants called Kohp&ra and
Saf-shikan, along with other gifts, to His Majesty.
At the same time the report arrived from B&ja Todar Mai
and Lashkar Kh&n upon the action which had been fouglit, and
upon the misconduct of some of the amirs^ as above related.
His Majesty had pardoned the offences (of Sikandar and Ba-
h&dur Kh&n), so he said 'Uheir faults have been forgiven ;'''' and
to carry out his decision he sent orders to his amirs to return
YOU T. 20
Digitized by VjOOQIC
306 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
to Goart. Mir Mu'izu-1 Mulk, E&j& Todar Mai, and Lashkar
Kh&Q, accordingly returned ; but those who had acted disgrace-
fully were forbidden to make their appearance for a time.
The Emperor then went to visit the fort of Chunir, celebrated
for its height and strength. He made three days* march from
Jaunpdr to Benares, and there rested several days. From
thence he went to the fortress, and having surveyed it, he
ordered it to be repaired and strengthened. Here he was
informed that there were many elephants in the jungles of
Chun&r, so he set off with a party of his attendants on a
hunting expedition. At ten kas distance they found a herd,
and having captured ten, they returned to the fort of Chun&r,
and from thence to the Imperial camp.
March against Idli Kuli Khdn-zamdn.
It has been above related how Khan-zam&n was pardoned,
and YAsjdgirB restored, upon condition that he did not pass over
the river without permission. But when the Emperor had gone
to Ghun&r, he crossed the river, and went to Muhammad&b&d,
one of the dependencies of Jaunpdr, and from thence sent parties
of troops to occupy Gh&zipur and Jaunpur. As soon as the
Emperor returned to his camp, he was informed of this evil
proceeding of \^1{ Kuli Eh&n's, and he said reproachfully to
Eh&n-kh&n&n, " No sooner had I quitted this neighbourhood
than ^Ali Euli Kh&n broke the conditions of his pardon.**^
Kh&n-kh&n&n looked mortified, and endeavoured to make ex-
cuse.
Orders were given for Ashraf Kh&n Mkr-bakhshi to go to
Jaunpur, and make prisoner the mother of 'Ali Euli Eh&n,
who was in that city, and to confine her in the fort of Jaunpur.
He was also to secure every rebel he could lay hold of. Ehw&ja
Jah&n and Muzaffar Eh&n were to remain with the camp, and
lead it by regular marches. The Emperor himself, with a con-
siderable force, started off upon a rapid march against 'Ali Kuli
Kh&n. Ja'&r Khan, son of Kar&k Kh&n Turkom&n^ who had
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAHr. 307
come from 'Ir&k^ went to the fort of Gh&zipur, intending to
make a dash at it ; but 'Ali Kuli Eh&n's people, who were in
the fort^ hearing of his intention, let themselves down from the
walls on to the river Ganges, and went to Muhammad&b&d.
Kh&n-zamfin, who was in that town, on being informed of
what had occurred, hastened to make his escape by the water.
When he reached the river Sarwar (Sarii), some boats, laden
with his property and effects, fell into the hands of the royal
forces. A body of troops was sent across the river with orders
to take no rest until they had secured Eh&n-zam&n. The
forces under the Emperor occupied the banks of the Sarwar
(Sard), and after searching all the jungles, they found that
Eh&n-zam4n had gone off to the Siwalik hills.^ News now
arrived that Bahddur Kh4n had gone to Jaunpur,' and liberated
his mother. He made Ashraf Eh&n prisoner, and formed the
design of making an attack upon the royal camp.' Upon
learning this, the Emperor gave up the chase of Kh&n-zam&n,
and turned towards Jaunpiir. The detachment also, which had
been sent on in pursuit of him, returned and joined the Em-
peror. Sikandar and Bahddur Eh&n, being informed of this
movement, made a retreat, and crossed the Ganges at the ferry
of Narhan.
In the month of Rajab, when the royal camp was near the
pargana of Niz&m&b&d, the annual Majlis-i wazn was held.
Twice every year, on the Emperor s birthday, both according to
the solar and lunar reckoning, the ministers and nobles weighed
the Emperor against gold, silver, and other things, which things
were afterwards distributed among the poor and needy.*
The Emperor marched from Nizdm&bid to Jaunp6r, where
he ordered a pleasant site to be selected, and a splendid palace
1 He proceeded first to the fort of Jalfip&ra. — Akbar-ndma, toL ii. p. 335.
« He took the fort by escalade.— Bad&fini, vol. ii. p. 83.
> He leyied contributions at Jannptir, and afterwards at Benares.— -4Ar*or-wrfi»ff,
Yol. ii. p. 336.
* This is a Hindu practice, and BadWnl says (toI. ii. p. 84) the gold and other
things were given to the brahmans and others.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
308 KIZAHU-D DMf AHUAD.
to be built ; and the nobles also were to bnild bouses and palaces
suitable to their rank. For it was determined that so long as
'All KuU Kh&n and his brother should remain in the world,
Jaunpur should be the capital of the State. The royal forces
were sent in pursuit of the fugitives, with instructions to take
no rest until they had inflicted the punishment due to them.
When 'All Euli Kh&n heard of this, he left the Siwalik hilk,
whither he had fled, and came to the side of the Ganges. Then
he sent a faithful follower named Mirz& Mubarak Bizwi^ to
Court with a message. This man went along with the mother
of Kh&n-zam&n to Kh&n-kh&n&n, and delivered his message.
Kh&n-kh&n&n, with the assistance of Mir 'Abdu-1 Latif, Mull&
'Abdu-Ua Makhdumu-1 Mulk, who was Shaikhu-1 Isl&m of Hind,
and Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi the 8adr^ again made intercession for
£h&n-zam&n ; and the Emperor, in his great kindness, once more
pardoned his offences.
£hw&ja-jah&n, Mir Murtaza Sharif!, and Makhdumu-1 Mulk
were commanded to go to Kh&n-zam&n, to reprove him, and to
convey to him the glad tidings of his forgiveness. When the
party reached the camp of Kh&n-zam&n, he came forth to meet
them, and conducted them with great honour to his dwelling.
He detained them some time, and treated them most respect-
fully. Then as required, he expressed contrition for his faults,
took an oath of fidelity, and bade his visitors farewell. The
Emperor's opponents having repented of their unrighteous deeds,
and made their submission, he returned to the capital in the
beginning of the eleventh year of the reign, corresponding with
973 H.
Eleventh year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Monday, 20th
Sha'b&n, 973 h. (12th March, 1566). The Court reached the
capital ^gra at the beginning of this year, on Friday, the 8th
1 Thii was the title he afterwards acquired. He was at this time called llin4
llirak.— Bad&Qni, toI. ii. p. S4.
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TABAKAT-I AEBART. 809
Bamazin. After a few days' rest and pleasnre, the Emperor
▼isited Nagar-chin, a fine baildiug which he had founded. [^Tm
phaeure in the game qfchaugdn; game played at night tcith fire-
balb. Death of Muhammad Tdsuf Khdn Atka, Kokaltdah of the
JEmperar,Jrom excessive drinking,"]
March of Mahdi Kdsim Khdn to Oarha, and Flight o/A'saf
Khdn to Khdn^zamdn.
The Emperor's mind being now relieved from all anxiety in
respect of ^Ali Euli Eh&n and other rebels, Mahdl . E&sim
Kh&n, one of the old nobles of the Imperial house, was sent
with 3000 or 4000 men to Garha to settle the affairs of that
country, and to capture Ksvki Kh&n. Before Mahdi E&sim
Eh&n arrived, Asaf Eh&n quitted the fort of Ghaur&garh, and
went off into the jungles. He wrote a letter, full of humility
and repentance, to the Emperor, asking permission to go on the
pilgrimage. Mahdi E&sim Eh&n, on arriving in Garha, secured
all the country, and went in pursuit of Xsaf Eb&n, who then
wrote letters to Eh&n-zam&n, proposing to go and join him.
Eh&n-zam&n wrote in reply, inviting him to come to him. Asaf
Eh&n, deceived by this, went to Jaunp&r, along with his brother
Wazfr Eh&n ; but at the very first audience he beheld the arro-
gance of Eh&n-zam&n, and was sorry that he had come. Mahdi
E&sim Eh&n, being in despair of capturing the fugitive, returned
to Garha, and he sent back to Court the men who had been
despatched to reinforce him.
Eh&n-zam&n sent Asaf Eh&n along with Bah&dur Eh&n
to seize upon some territories which were in the hands of
the Afgh&ns ; but he kept Wazir Eh&n near himself, and
appointed men to watch him. Wazir Eh&n sent a person to
Kss£ Eh&n to say, " I intend to fly from this place at such
and such a time : do you also in some way or other get away
from Bah&dur Eh&n."^ iisaf Eh&n accordingly, leaving all his
baggage and property behind, went off in the night, and took
the road to Earra-M&nikpiir. In the course of the night
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310 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
he travelled thirty kos^ but Bah&dar Kh&n pursued him, and
overtook him between Jaunpur and M &nikpdr. A fight ensued^
in which ^af Kh&n was defeated and taken prisoner. Bah&dur
Kh&n threw him into a howda on an elephant, and went on hb
way, when Wazir Kh4n, who had got away from Kh&n-zam&n,
came up. Bah&dur Eh&n, feeling that he was unable to cope
with WazIr Ehan, gave orders for putting ^af Ehan to death
at once in the howda. Sword-cuts were aimed at JiasS Ehan,
three of his fingers were cut off, and he received a wound also in
the nose ; but Wazir Eh&n fought his way through, and rescued
his brother. The two brothers then went to Earra, and Bah&dur
Eh&n returned without accomplishing his object. Wazir Kh&n
proceeded to Court, and, through the intervention of Muzaf-
far Eh&n, he was admitted to an audience, and received pardon
for his own and his brother^s offences, while His Majesty waa
near Lahore, engaged in the pursuit of Mirz& Muhammad
Hakim and in hunting, as will be related in their appropriate
place. A farmdn of favour and conciliation was sent to Asaf
Eh&n.
Mirzd Sulaimdn^ 8 fourth attempt upon Kabul
It has been related in a former page how Mirz& Sulaim&n led
his army against E&bul, and how the Imperial forces were sent
to the assistance of Mirz& Muhammad Hakim. Mirz& Sulaim&n,
unable to resist, retreated to Badakhsh&n^ and the Imperial
nobles, having taken leave of Mirz& Muhammad Hakim, returned
to Hindust&n. Sulaim&n being now informed of the return of
the Emperor's forces, assembled his army in Badakhsh&n, and
marched with his wife Ehurram Begam to effect the conquest
of E&bul. Mirz& Muhammad Hakim left E&bul in chaise of
Ma'sdm Eoka, who was in his confidence, and had a reputation
for courage. He himself went with Ehw&ja Hasan Nakshabandi
and the army into the valley of the Ohorband. Mirz& Sulaim&n
advanced to E&bul, and invested the fortress. When he found
that he was not likely to capture it, he took counsel, and sent
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TABAKiCT.I AKBABr. 311
his wife SSiurram Begam into Ghorband to Mirz& Mahammad
Hakim, in order to delude him with a show of kindness and
friendship, and to prevail over him by plausible representations.
Khurram Begam accordingly left Mirzd Sulaimdn before K&bul,
and went towards Ghorband. She sent forward some persons
to assure Mirz& Muhammad Hakim of her great affection for
him, that having no son of her own, she looked upon him as her
son, and that the great object of her journey was to bring about
concord and unity.
Mirz& Muhammad Hakim, in consequence of this message,
determined to have a meeting with Khurram Begam at Kar&-
b&gh, which is about ten k(>% from £&bul ; and he sent messen-
gers to her to inform her of his intention, and to receive from
her satisfactory assurances. Elhurram Begam showed great joy
at the prospect of a meeting, and affirmed with strong oaths that
she had no deceitful or treacherous designs, and that her sole
object was unanimity. The messengers listened to these words
and returned. They had not gone far, when that stupid ^ woman
sent off messengers in hot haste to Mirz& Sulaim&n, informing
him of the intended meeting at Kardb&gh, and advising him to
come there secretly with all speed, and await his opportunity.
Mirz& Sulaim&n left Muhammad Kuli Shagh&li, a man of
courage and one of his confidential nobles, with 1000 men, in
charge of his daughters, who were with him in his camp at
K&bul. With the rest of the army he made a forced march to
the neighbourhood of Kar&b&gh, and there took post in ambush.
The messengers sent by Mirz& Muhammad Hakim to Khur-
ram Begam returned to him, and reported all her asijurances and
pledges. They strongly urged him to meet her, and Khw&ja
Hasan Nakshabandi exerted his influence to the same end.
But B&ki K&ksh&l was opposed to the Mirz&'s going, and said
the woman was intent upon some stratagem and deception.
Mirz& Muhammad Hakim, however, having promised to meet
Khurram Begam, would not listen to B&ki K&ksh&l's objections,
^ ndkis-aklf hardly an appropriate epithet.
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312 KIZAMU-D Bfir AHMAD.
and proceeded with a few trusty ibllowers towards Ear&b&gh.
When they reached the appointed place, some of Mirz& Sulai-
m&n's soldiers, who had got separated in the night, camQ in and
made known the fact of Mirz& Sulaim&n having come, and of
his lying in concealment. As soon as he was informed of this,
Mirz& Muhammad Hakim returned, and Sulaim&n, being in-
formed of his departure, set off in pursuit. In the pass of
Sanjad-darra they overtook some of Mirz& Muhammad Hakim's
men, and made them prisoners. They also plundered the Mirz&'s
baggage, etc., which was in the rear, and they stopped in the pass.
The Mirz& himself, along with Muhammad Hakim, reached
Ghorband. From thence they went to Jal&I&b&d, and afterwards
to the banks of the Indus.
As soon as he crossed the river, the Mirz& wrote a letter to the
Emperor^ and sent it by his envoys. They reached the Court at
the time it was at Nagar-chin, and were honoured with an inter-
view. They presented the Mirz&'s letter, in which he set forth
the unfortunate state of his affairs. Intelligence of the distrac-
tions at K&bul had reached the Court before their arrival, and
the Emperor had appointed Faridun Eh&n, maternal uncle of
the Mirz&, and a noble of the Imperial Court, to go to his assist-
ance. He now sent Khush-khabr Eh&n, one of the royal heralds,
with money, goods of Hindust&n, and a horse and saddle, to the
Mirz&; and he wrote ^farmdn^ in which he said that if the Mirz&
required assistance, he would send the amivB of the Panj&b to
support him.
When Khush-khabr Eh&n approached the camp, the Mirz4
hastened out with due ceremony and respect to receive the
farmdn. After the arrival of Khush-khabr Kh&n, Faridun
laboured to instigate the Mirz& to hostile attempts, representing
that it would be easy for him to effect the conquest of Lahore.
Hostilities having been resolved upon, he tried to persuade the
Mirz& to seize Khush-khabr Kh&n. But although the Mirz&
had been led away by his foolish persuasions, he was too honour-
able to consent to the detention of Khush-khabr Kh&n; so he
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TABAEAT-I AKBABT. 313
invited the Eh&n to his presence secretly, and sent him awaj.
Snlt&n 'All, a clerk who had fled from the Court, and Hasan
Eh&n, brother of Shah&ba-d din Ahmad Kh&n, who was in
£&bal, helped to excite the hostile spirit, and added their voices
to Fariddn's.
Won over by their persuasions, the Mirz& broke into open
revolt, and marched against Lahore. Upon coming into the
neighbourhood of the city, he began to plunder. Some of the
nobles of the Panj&b, such as Mir Muhammad Khfin-i Kal&n,^
Eutbn-d din Muhammad Eh&n, and Sharif Muhammad, hearing
of these proceedings, assembled in Lahore. They looked to
the safety of the fort, and wrote an account of the Mirz&'s
rebellion and hostile acts to the Emperor. On arriving near
Lahore, the Mirz& encamped in the garden of Mahdi Efisim
Eh&n, which is in sight of the city. Several times he marshalled
his forces, and advanced to the foot of the fortifications ; but the
amirn of the Panj&b repulsed him with the fire of their guns
and muskets. At length, when intelligence came of the advance
of the royal forces, the Mirz&, feeling unable to offer resistance,
took to flight.
March of the Army to Lahore.
When the hostile proceedings of Mirz& Muhammad Hakim
became known to the Emperor, his countenance showed the
auger which he felt, and he gave orders for the preparation of
the army. Leaving Mu'nim Eh&n Kh&n-kh&n&n in charge of
iigra, the capital, and Muzaffar Eh&n in direction of the diwdni^
on the 3rd Jum&da-l awwal, 974 h., he began his march. In
ten days he reached Dehli, and went to visit the shrines of the
saints who there repose, and bestowed his royal bounty on the
poor and needy. From thence he proceeded by regular marches
to Sirhind. He was greatly pleased with the bdzdrs of this
town, and commended H&fiz Bakhna, who was the shikkddr, and
'^ ^ And all the Atka afnirt,** ».#. all the relatioiu of Shamsa-d din Muhammad Atka.
— Bad&Oni, toL ii. p. 91. The Kh&n-i Ealfcn iras elder hrother of Shamsu^d din.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
314 NIZAMU-D BfK AHMAD.
placed the sarkdrddri of that place in his charge. After crossing
the Jumna, he received intelligence of the flight of Mirz£
Muhammad Hakim, but he went on joyfully to Lahore. Upon
approaching the city, the great amira^ who had exhibited their
loyalty and devotion, came forth to meet him, and received dis-
tinguished marks of royal favour. In the month of Bajab he
arrived at Lahore, the ddru-s aaltanat, and took up his abode in
the house of Mahdi K&sim Kh&n, in the citadel. By command
of His Majesty, Kutbu-d din Muhammad Elh&n and Kam&l
£h&D Gakhar went in pursuit of Mirz& Muhammad Hakim, and
advanced beyond the pargana of Bahra. There they learnt that
the Mirzd had crossed the Indus, so they returned.
When Mirzd Muhammad Hakim heard that Mirz& Salaim&n
had gone back to Badakhsh&n, he made haste to £&bul. It
has been related in a former page how Mirz& Sulaim&n left
his daughters in his camp at K&bul, and went off in haste to
seize upon Mirz& Muhammad Hakim at Kar&bdgh. Next day
Muhammad Ma'sum Koka, whom Mirzd Muhammad Hakim
had left in command at K&bul, sent out a force to attack the
besiegers^ camp, and defeated them. Muhammad Kuli Shagh&li,
who was in command, gave up his baggage to plunder, and went
off with the daughters of Mirzd Sulaim&n to Chah&r-diw&r
B&gh, a place in the vicinity, and there entrenched himself.
The E&bul forces surrounded the place, and sought to make him
and Mirzd Sulaimdn'^s daughters their prisoners; but Ma'sum
Koka, considering it unseemly to make prisoners of the ladies,
recalled his men. Mirz& Sulaim&n returned unsuccessful from
Ear&b&gh, and again laid siege to K&bul, but Ma'sum Koka
had grown bold and daring. Every day he sent out parties of
men, and sorely troubled the besiegers. The weather grew very
cold, so Mirz& Sulaim&n became desirous of peace. Ma'sum
Koka was aware of his distress, and was anxious to fight, so he
would not make peace. Finally, Mirz& Sulaim&n sent in K&zi
Khan Badakhshi, who had been tutor of Ma'sum Koka, and
prevailed upon him to send the Mirz& a small present. Peace
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TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 315
was thus made. The Mirz& first sent on his wife, and then
followed her to Badakhsh&n.
When the Imperial Court arrived at Lucknow, many of the
zaminddrs of the coantrj came in to pay their allegiance, and
were graciously received. Those who were unable to come them-
selves sent their representatives with presents and offerings, and
their assurances of loyalty. Among them, Muhammad B&ki
Tarkh&n, son of Mirz& Tsd, ruler of Sindh, sent his ambassadors
to Court, to say that his father^ who had been one of the
dependents of the Imperial throne, was dead, and that he, the
successor, considered himself among the vassals of the Emperor.
Sult&n Mahmddy the governor (tvali) of the fort, supported by
the Eazilbashis of Kandah&r, was making attacks upon his
territories, and he therefore besought the Emperor to prevent
these molestations. In compliance with this application, the
Emperor sent a farmdn to Sult&n M ahmud, directing him to
keep within his own boundaries, and not to attack the territories
of Muhammad B&ki.
During the stay at Lahore, a letter arrived from Agra, from
Mu'nim Eh&n Eh&n-kh&n&n, with the intelligence that the sons
of Muhammad Sult&n Mirz& and Uldgh Mirzi, by name Ibra-
him Husain Mirz&, Muhammad Husain Mirzd, and Sh&h Mirzi,
who held jdgirs in the sarkdr of Sambal, had broken out in
rebellion. And when he, Kh&u-kh&n&n, had marched as £u: as
Dehli to punish them, they had heard of his approach, and had
gone off towards Maudu. This Muhammad Sult&n Mirzi was
son of Wis Mirz&, son of Mankard Mirz&, son of Mansur, son
of Mankar&, son of 'Umar Shaikh, son of Amir Timur Gurg&n
Sdhib'kirdn, His mother was a daughter of Sult&n Husain
Mirz&. After the death of Sult&n Husain Mirz&, he came to
the Court of the Emperor B&bar, and was honourably received.
The Emperor Hum&ydn also treated him with consideration
during the days of his reign. His sons, Uldgh Mirz& and Sh&h
Mirz&) were also in the service of Hum&yun. These men had
several times been guilty of rebellious actions, and their offences
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316 NIZAMTJ-D DfN AHMAD.
had been forgiven. TTldgh Beg was killed in an attack npon
the Haz&ra country, and Sh&h Mirz& was killed by the arrows
of robbers in the pass of Ma'mdra, about ten parasangs from
K&bul. TJlugh Beg left two sons, Sult&n Muhammad Mira&
and Sikandar Mirz&. His Majesty [Hum&ydn] treated them
kindly, and to Sikandar Mirz& he gave the title of XJlugh Mirz&,
and to Sult&n Muhammad Mirz& the title of Sh&h Mirz&.
When the Emperor Akbar succeeded to the throne, Muhammad
Sult&n Mirz& had grown old, so he was excused service, and
the pargana of 'Azampur, in Sambal, was settled upon him for
his maintenance. Several sons were borne to him in his old
age — Ibr&him Husain Mirz&, Muhammad Husain Mirz&, and
^KVW Husain Mirz&. To every one of these the Emperor gave
suitable jdgirSj and advanced them to the dignity of amin.
They were constantly in attendance upon His Majesty, rendering
their services. When the Emperor returned from his Jaunpur
campaign, they repaired to their jdgirs^ and remained in Sambal.
But when His Majesty went to Lahore, to repress the attempt
of Mirz& Muhammad Hakim, Uldgh Mirz& and Sh&h Mirz&,
in concert with their uncles Ibr&h{m Husain and Mirz& Mu-
hammad Husain, broke out into rebellion, and attacked several
parganas. But the jdgirddra of the neighbourhood gathered
together and attacked them, so that they had to fly to M&lwa,
as will be related in the sequel.
Twelfth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Monday, 2nd
Bamaz&n, 974 h. (12th Feb. 1567). At the beginning of this
year, which was near the Nauroz^ His Majesty determined to
go out for a Kamurgha^ hunt. An order was issued to all the
great amirs for forty miles round Lahore to drive the animals
together into a large plain, situated about five koB from Lahore*
1 Kamurgha, a Turkf word for a great haitue^ in which the game is driTea into a
oentre by a large circle of beaters.— u^ter-iN<fli«, toL ii. pp. 364, 421.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBABf. 317
Accordingly the amirSy under the direction of Mir Muhammad
Atka, drove together abont fifteen thousand animals, deer, nil-
ff4o8, jackals, foxes, etc., into that plain. The extent of this
hunting ground was five kos on erery side, and the Emperor^s
tent (kaaar)^ which he used in his campaigns, was brought here
and set up. The Emperor then mounted, and went out to hunt.
The amir9 and the khdtis daily drew their lines closer, and
narrowed the circle. When several days had passed in this
sport. His Majesty graciously gave his attendants permission to
shoot, and afterwards made the permission general, so that there
was no soldier or any person who did not get several kinds of
game. After the sport was over, the Emperor returned towards
the city, and on reaching the river of Lahore, he plunged into
the water on horseback and swam over. Of the attendants who
followed His Majesty, Khush-khabr Kh&n Yasdwal and Mir
Muhammad, son of Sher Muhammad Kurd&r, were drowned.
While the hunt was going on, Hamid Bakri, one of the most
favoured equerries (^asdwafj^ having drunk too much, had
wounded one of the Emperot'*s attendants with an arrow. This
person found an opportunity in the course of the hunting to
complain to the Emperor, who ordered Kalij Kh&n to strike off
the offender^'s head. Kalij Kh&n used a sword, which broke
with the blow, without doing the culprit any harm. Wlien the
Emperor saw this, he respited him, but had him exposed to
public derision.
About this time Muzaffar Kh&n, who had been left in charge
of the diwdnl at Agra, proceeded to the camp of the Emperor,
along with Wazir Kh&n, brother of Asaf Khan, and joined it
while he was out on the hunting excursion. The author's father,
who had remained behind at Agra on government business,
accompanied Muzaffar Kh&n on this journey, and I, the author
of this work, went along with my father. In fine, the Emperor
forgave the offences of Asaf Kh&n and Wazir Kh&n, and
admitted the latter to an audience. A command was given that
Asaf Kh&n, along with Majnun Kh&n Kaksh&l, should go to
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318 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
Earra-M&nikpur, and provide for the safety of the dependent
territories.
Intelligence now arrived that 'Ali Kali Eh&n, Bah&dur Eh&n,
and Sikandar Kh&n had again broken their engagements, and
risen in rebellion.^ Hereupon the Emperor placed their vakil
Mirz& Mirak Rizwi in custody of Kh4n B&ki Khin, and leaving
the direction of the affairs of the Panj&b in the charge of Mir
Muhammad Kh&n and all the Atkas, on the 12th Kamaz&ny
974 H, (22nd March, 1567), he started on his return to Agra.
When the Emperor arrived at Th&nesar, there was an assem-
blage of Jogis and Sdnnt/dsis on the banks of a lake called Kur-
khet. This is a sacred place of the brahmans, and on occasion of
eclipses the people of Hindust&n flock thither from all parts to
bathe. There was a great assemblage there on this occasion,
and the people were bestowing their gifts of gold and silver,
and jewels and stuffs, upon the brahmans. Many of them threw
themselves into the water, and the Jogis and Sannydsis^ were
gathering a rich harvest from their charity. In consequence of
a feud which existed between these two sects, they came to the
Emperor, seeking permission to settle it by fio^hting. The
Sannydsis were between two and three hundred in number, and
the Jogisy who wear only rags, were over five hundred. When
the adversaries stood ready to begin the fray, by the Emperor's
order, some soldiers smeared their persons with ashes, and went
to support the Sannydsis^ who were the weaker party. A fierce
fight ensued, and many were killed. The Emperor greatly
enjoyed the sight. At length the Jogk were defeated, and the
Sannydak were the victors.
When the Imperial camp reached Dehli, Mirz& Mirak Bizwi,
who had been left in the charge of Kh&n Baki Kh&n, made his
escape, and although the Kh&n pursued him, he did not succeed
^ They had caused the khutba to he read in the name of Mirz& Muhammad
Hakfm. — Akbar^dtna^ vol. ii. p. 369.
> Ahti-1 Fazl says the two sects were called *< Guts and Paris " {Akbar^ndnM,
vol. ii. p. 361) ; and he also speaks of the pleasure that Akbar deri?ed from wit-
nessing the fight.
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TABAEAT-I AKBABr. 319
in recaptaring him, and so, being apprehensive of the Emperor's
displeasure, he himself fled. T&t4r Kh&n, the govem6r of Dehll,
reported that Muhammad Am(n Diw&na/ who had fled from
Lahore, had gone to the house of Shah&b Kh&n Turkoman,
where he stayed some days, and after obtaining fix>m him pecu-
niary assistance and a horse, had gone off to join the insur-
gents. This greatly incensed the Emperor, and he directed
Sh&h Fakhru-d din Meshhedi to apprehend Shah&b Khan.
When the Emperor was encamped at the village of Palwal,'
Shah&b Kh&n was brought in for punishment, and was there
executed.
Upon arriving at .Aigra, the Emperor was informed that Kh&n-
zam&n was besieging the fort of Shergarh, four koa distant from
£ananj, in which fort Mirz& Yusuf Kh&n was shut up. Nineteen
days after his arrival at ^gra, the Emperor left Kh&n-kh&n&n in
charge of the city, and on Monday, the 23rd Shawwal, 974 h.,
marched towards Jaunpur. When he reached the pargana of
Saket, 'AH Kuli Kh&n decamped from before Shergarh, and fled
to his brother Bah4dur Kh&n, who was in M&nikpur. The
royal camp was next pitched near the town of Bhojpur, and the
Emperor detached Muhammad Kull Kh&n Birl&s, MuzafTar
Kh&n, Ilfij& Todar Mai, Sh&h Biddgh Kh&n and his son 'Abdu-1
Matlab Hasan Kh&n, '^dil Muhammad, Ehw^ja Ghiy&su-d din
'All Rdkhshiy and other officers, with nearly 6000 horse, against
Sikandar, who was in Oudh. He himself continued his march
towards M&nikpur.
When he reached the pargana of B&i Bareilly, he learnt
that 'All Kuli Kh&n and Bahidur Kh&n had crossed the Ganges
with the object of proceeding towards Kalpi.' He then directed
his camp to proceed under the command of Khw&ja Jah&n to
^ He had made an attempt npon the life of one of the Imperial generals, and was
condemned to death; hut his punishment was commuted for the hastinado and
imprisonment. He received the corporal punishment, and escaped next day. —
Akhar-ndina, yoL ii. p. 358.
> Halfway between Dehli and Muttra.
» The Akbar^dma (vol ii. p. 366) says "Gwfelior."
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320 KIZXMU-D Dm AHMAD.
the fort of Earra, and then marched with all possible speed
to the ferry of M&nikpiir.^ There he crossed the river upon
the back of an elephant, and from 1000 to 1500 men swam
the river along with him. Majndn Kh&n and Asaf Eh&n,
who were in advance, constantly sent back intelligence of the
enemy. It so happened that f Ali Euli Ehan and Bah4dur Khan
had occupied themselves all that night in wine-drinking and
licentiousness, and were heedless of everything else. The warlike
demonstrations against them they attributed to the daring of
Majniin Kh&n, and would not believe that the Emperor was
near at hand.
On Sunday, the 1st Zi-1 hijja, the Emperor made his disposi-
tions for action. He himself took command of the centre.
Asaf Kh&n and all the Atkas^ were on the right; Majniin
Kh&n and other amirs were on the left. This day His Majesty
rode an elephant called B&Isundar, and Mirz& Koka, who
bore the title of 'Azam Kb&n, was seated in the howda with
him. The enemy, being now fully aware of the Emperor's
advance, prepared themselves for death. They drew out their
forces, and sent a body of men to oppose the advanced guard
of the Emperor.^ Bkhk Kh&n K&ksh&l, who commanded the
advance, repulsed them and drove them back upon the lines of
'All Kuli Kh&n. In the confusion, the horse of one of the
fugitives ran against the horse of 'All Kuli Khfin, and the
Kh&n's turban fell off. Bah&dur Kh&n saw this, and his spirit
being roused, he made a bold charge upon the advanced guard
under B&b& Kh&n, and drove it back upon the ranks of
Majnun Kh&n. Bahddur Kh&n in the pursuit came between
these two forces. He fought manfully, but his horse, being
> There had been hearj rains; the country was flooded, and the rirer much
twollen.'^ Akbaa-ndmay toL ii. p. 366.
> The word '"Atkas" is taken from Bad&6ni (toI. ii. p. 96). The name used ia
the MSS. of the Tabakdt is doubtful.
' Only 600 men and 600 elephants had managed to keep np with the Emperor.
The rest followed and took part in the fight as they mvi^^Akbar'mdwM^ toL ii.
p. 368.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEXT-I AKBABr. 821
wounded by an arrow, became unmanageable, and he was thrown
to the ground and made prisoner.
As the battle grew hot, the Emperor alighted from his
elephant and mounted a horse. Then he gave orders for the
elephants to be driven against the lines of 'All Kuli Kh&n.
There was among them an elephant named HIr&nand, and when
he approached the ranks of the enemy, they let loose against
him an elephant called Diy&na; but Hir&nand gave him such
a butt, that he fell upon the spot. 'Ali Kuli Kh&n received a
wound from an arrow, and while he was engaged in drawing it
out, another arrow struck his horse. The animal became restive,
and ^Ali Kuli Kh&n also was thrown. An elephant named
Narsing now came up, and was about to crush him, when 'Ali
Kuli Kh&n cried out to the driver, ^^ I am a great man ; if you
take me alive to thd Emperor, he will reward you." The driver
paid no heed to his words, but drove the animal over him and
crushed him under foot. When the field was cleared of the
enemy, Nazar Bah&dur placed Bah&dur Kh&n behind him on a
horse, and conducted him to the presence of the Emperor. By
the efforts of the amirs he was put to death. After a little
while^ the head of 'Ali Kuli Kh&n-zam&n was also brought.^
The Emperor then alighted from bis horse, and returned thanks
for this victory. This battle was fought at the village of Man-
karw&l, one of the dependencies of Josi and Pay&g, now known
as lUah&b&s, on Monday, the 1st Zi-1 hijja, 974 h.
While the Emperor was on his campaign against Kh&n-zam&n,
the author's father remained at Agra, in the performance of his
duty to the Emperor, and the author himself was at Agra with
him. Every day turbulent and designing men spread disastrous
news. One day I said to one of my companions, '^ Suppose we
set some &vourable reports afloat ? '** and he asked what we
should say, and I replied, **Let us say that news has come
that they are bringing in the heads of Kh&n-zam&n and Bah&dur
^ His death being doabted, a reward was offered for erery head. His head was
then brought in and recognized. — Akbar^ndma^ yol. ii. p. 371.
TOL. T. 21
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822 NIZiCMU*0 DrN AHtf AD.
Kh&n." I told thia story to several persons. Three daya
afterwards 'Abdu-Ua, son of Mur&d B^, brought in the heads
of Eh&n-zamfin and Bah&dur Kh&n. The mmoor was started
in ^gra on the very day they were slain.^
When the Emperor's mind was relieved from all apprehension
about his adversaries, he proceeded to Josi and Pay&g, and thero
rested two days. Some persons, who had deserted the royal
army to join *Ali Kuli Kh&n, were here brought in, and were
handed over to keepers. He then proceeded to Benares.' Every
follower of 'Ali Kuli Kh&n who came forward and was sub-
missive to the Emperor's power was pardoned. From Benares
he went to Jaunptir, and remained three days in sight of that
city. Some of ''Ali Kuli Kh&n'^s men, who had escaped from
the battle-field and fled to Jaunpur, were all forgiven and kindly
treated. From thence he went, attended by four or five persons,
and, by rapid travelling, in the course of three days he reached
the Ganges, at the ferry of Karra and M&nikpur, where there
was a camp. Grossing the river in a boat, he went and rested
in the fortress. Then he wrote to Mu'nim Kh&n Kh&n-kh&n&n,
summoning him from Agra.
Several jdgirddra of the Eastern province paid their respects,
and were dismissed with honour. Some men of 'All Kuli's
army, who were prisoners and always intent upon creating a
disturbance, such as Kh&n Kuli Uzbek, Y&r 'All and Mirz&
Beg K&ksh&l, people of Majnun *Ali Kh&n, *Khushh&l Beg
one of the guards of the late Emperor Hum&yun, Mir Sh&h
Badakhshi, and other malcontents, met with a terrible fate.'
^ Ab&l Fazl tells a similar story of his father. He says that while the Emperor
was on this campaign, the hopes of the disaffected rose to the highest pitch, and
Mu*nim Kh&n, who was in chai-ge of the capital, was sorely troubled. In his per-
plexity, he consulted Shaikh Mnb&rak, who predicted that the heads of the rebels
would be brought in. — Akbar-ndma, vol. ii. p. 373.
' The people of Bonarcs had closed their gates, so orders were given for plundering
the city. — Akbar-ndma, vol. ii. p. 373.
' Trampled to death by elephants. — T, Alp. Bad&6ni informs us (vol. ii. p. 100)
that K&z( Taw&lsi, the K&zi of the Imperial camp, gave it as his opinion that the
execution of these prisoners and the seizure of their property was unlawfdl. For
this independent judgment he was dismissed.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABXKAT'l AKBABr. 323
Mirz& MIrak Rizwi Meshhedi, the vakil of 'Ali Eali Eh&n,
who had fled from Court to join the hitter, waa taken prisoner on
the day of battle, and was ordered to be cast under the feet of an
elephant. But the elephant merely rubbed him with his trunk,
and finally, in virtue of his being a aaiyttf, his crime was forgiren.
£h&n-kh&n&n, who had been summoned from ^gra, now waited
upon His Majesty, and was invested with the care and govern-
ment of the jdffira of 'All Kuli Kh&n and Bah&dur Khan in
Jaunpur, Benares, Gh&zipur, the fort of Ohun&r and Zam&niya,
as far as the ferry of Ohaunsa. He also received a present of a
splendid robe, and of a horse. In the midst of the rainy season,
in Zi-1 hijja, 974, the Emperor began his homeward march, and
in Muharram, 975, arrived at Xgra.
It has been previously mentioned that Muhammad Kuli Kh&n
Birl&s and Muzaffar Kh&n were sent with a force against Sikan-
dar, and went towards Oudh. On hearing of their approach,
Sikandar took refuge in a fort.^ The royal forces came up and
laid siege to the fort. Sikandar was already hard pressed, when
the news arrived of the destruction of ^Al( Kuli Kh&u and
Bah&dur Kh&n. This greatly dispirited the Uzbeks, and they
sent men to 'Ali KuH and Muzaffar Kh&n, to treat for peace.
Havin<r thus en^aired the commanders in ne^ociations, Sikandar
evacuated the fort by the gate towards the river, and embarked
in boats. As he had all the boats, the Imperial generals were
unable to cross the river. Sikandar again sent a message to
them, declaring that he was quite ready to keep the engagement
he had made^ but his men were suspicious. He therefore re-
quested that they would come out in a boat to the middle of the
river, and he would meet them with two or three persons and
settle the terms. This would satisfy his men, and they would
proceed together to Court. Muhammad Kuli Kh&n Birl&s,
Muzaffar Kh&n, and R&j& Todar Mai agreed to this proposition,
and went out to the middle of the stream. Sikandar Kh&n, on
the other side, came out with two or three persons, and had the
^ The fort of Oudh.— Bad&ani, toI. ii. p. 101.
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324 NIZAMTT-D DrK AHMAD.
interview.^ The amirs promised to sue for the pardon of Sikan-
dar, and swore that they would make no attack on the lives or
property of him or his men. Upon this agreement, they sepa-
rated, and each party went to his own side.
Sikandar then made two days'* march, and wrote to the anUra^
stating that the rise of the waters had prerented his staying on
the banks of the river. On hearing of his departure, the amirs
went after him. When they reached Gorakhpur, they discovered
that he had crossed the river and gone oS. The country before
them belonged to the Afgh&ns, into which they could not enter
without the order of the Emperor. They wrote a statement of
the position to Court, and received an answer to the effect, that
as Sikandar had left the Imperial territory, it was unnecessary
to pursue him. His estates Bkudjaglrs were given to Muhammad
Kull Kh&n Birl&s. The amira^ on being acquainted with the
contents of the letter, left Muhammad Kuli Kh&n^ and returned
to Court.
Conquest of the Fort of Chitor.^
Many zarninddrs and rdjds of Hindust&n had become subjects
of the Imperial throne. But Il&n4 TJdi Singh, E&j& of M&rw&r,
confident in the strength of his fortresses, and the number of
his men and elephants, had thrown off his allegiance. Now that
the Emperor had returned to the capital, with his mind at rest
in respect of 'All Kuli Kh&n and other rebels, he turned his
attention towards the capture of Chitor. He accordingly began
to make preparations for the campaign. The pargana of Bay&na
was taken from H&jl Muhammad Kh&n Slst&ni, and given in
jdgir to Asaf Kh&n, who was ordered to proceed thither, and
collect provisions and materials for the army. The Emperor
followed to the town of B&ri, with the avowed intention of
1 Abfi-1 Fasl places this conference after Sikandar*8 escape, and says that h«
demanded the restoration of his jdgir and offices, and acted in a rery false and
unworthy mBsaLet^-^Akbar^nkma^ toI. iL p. 877.
> See tuprd^ p. 169.
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TABASAT-I AKBAET. 325
hanting, and there killed a thoasand animab in sport. Then he
ordered his army to be brought up, and proceeded onwards to
Mu-raaid&na. When he reached the fort of Supar,^ he foaud
that, hearing of his approach, the men who garrisoned that fort
for B&i Saijan of Bantambhor, had abandoned it and fled to
Bantambhor. The fort was phiced in charge of Kazar Bahadur,
one of the Imperial adherents. From thence he went on to
Kota, one of the parganas of that country, of which he made
Sh&h Mohammad Kh&n Kandah&ri the governor. Next he
marched to G&grun,' on the borders of M&lwa.
Mirzd IJlugh and Mirzd Sh&h^ sons of Muhammad Sult&n
Mirz&, had fled from Sambal, and •had come into these parts,
where they had begun a revolt, which the Emperor deemed it
necessary to suppress. He therefore appointed Shah&bu-d din
Ahmad Kh&n, Sh&h Biddgh Eh&n, Muhammad Murid Kh&n,
and H&ji Muhammad Sist&ni to jdgin in Maudu, and charged
them with that duty. When the amir% reached IJjjain, which
is one of the chief places in that country, they found that the
Mirz&s, on hearing of the Emperor's approach, had assembled
together and fled to Gujar&t, to CShangiz Eh&n, the ruler of that
country, who had been one of the adherents of Sult&n Mahmud
Gujar&ti. So the amirs obtained possession of Mandu without
opposition.
When the Emperor marched from Gfigrdn, B&n& IJdi Singh
left seven or eight thousand men to hold Ghitor, under the
command of a B&jput named Jai Mai, a valiant chief, who had
fought against Mirz& Sharafii-d din Husain, in the fort of
Mirtha, as before related. The Bfin& himself, with all his
relatives and dependents, took refuge in the hills and jungles.
The fort of Ghitor is seated on a hill, which is about one kos in
height, and has no connexion vrith any other hill. The length
of the fortress is three ko8^ and the width half a has. It contains
1 Or " Siwi-^dpar."— ulitW-fiiiMa, roL ii. p. 881. «* Sheopoor/' 120 miles S. W.
of Agra.
' Hear the jimctioii of the Ahtl and K61i Sind in Eota.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
326 KizAinr.D Dm ahmad.
plenty of running water. Under His Majesty's orders, the
ground round the fort was portioned out among the different
amirs.
The royal forces were ordered to plunder and lay waste the
country, and Asaf Kh&n was sent to E&mpur,^ a prosperous
town of the province. He attacked and captured the fort^ and
ravaged all the neighbourhood. Husain Kull Kh&n was sent
with a detachment towards T/dipur and Kombalmir,^ which is
one of the chief fortresses in that country, and is the residence
of the Ukai, He ravaged several towns and villages, but finding
no trace of the B&n&, he returned to the Imperial camp.
When the siege of Ghitor had been carried on some time, the
Emperor ordered the construction of sdbdU^ and the digging of
mines. About 5000 builders and carpenters and stonemasons
were collected, and began their work of constructing sahdU on
two sides of the fort. A sabat is a kind of wall which is begun
at musket-shot distance (from the fort), and under the shelter of
its planks strongly &stened together and covered with raw
hides, a kind of way {kicha) is conducted to the fortress. The
walls are then battered from it with guns, and a breach being
made, the brave assailants rush into the fort. The sdbdt which
was conducted from the royal battery (marchaUi bddshdM) was
so extensive that ten horsemen abreast could ride along it, and
it was so high that an elephant-rider with his spear in his hand
could pass under it.
While the sdbdt was in course of construction, the garrison
kept up such a fire of guns and muskets, that more than 100 of
the workmen and labourers employed in it were killed daily,
although they covered themselves with shields of bull-hide.
Corpses were used in the walls like bricks. In a short time, the
sdbdi was completed, and carried close to the fort.
^ About fifty miles S.E. from Chitor. Asaf Ehftn had preyioosly redaced tbe fort
of M&ndal (the *<Mundalour" of Maloolm*s map, ten miles 9.E. of G&grf&nP}.— -
Akbar-ndma^ toL it pp. 395, 396.
» Thirty-four miles N.W. of ITdiptir.
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TABAEAT-I AXBABr. 327
The miners also carried their mines to the foot of the walls,
and having constructed mines under two bastions which were
near together^ they filled them with gunpowder. A party of men
of well-known bravery, fiilly armed and accoutred, approached
the bastions, ready to rush into the fort as soon as a breach
was made by the explosion of the mines. Fire was applied to
both mines at the same time, but the match of one was shorter
than the other, and that made the explosion first. The bastion
was blown into the air, and a large breach was effected. The
storming party at once rushed to the breach, and were about
to enter, when the second mine exploded, and the bastion was
blown up. Friends and foes, who were contending in the breach,
were hurled into the air together, and those also on whom the
stones fell perished. It is notorious that stones of 200 mans
were carried to a distance of three or four kos from the walls,
and bodies of men who had been burnt were found. Saiyid
Jamalu-d din and * * * and a great number of the Emperor's
attendants, were slain, and nearly 500 picked soldiers were killed
by blows from the stones. A large number also of the infidels
perished.
After this disaster, the pride and solicitude of the Emperor be-
came still more intent upon the reduction of the fortress. A sdbdi
which had been laid down in the battery of Shuj&'at Kh&n was
now completed. On the night of Tuesday, 25th Sha'ban, 975 h.,
the Imperial forces assembled from all sides, and the wall being
breached, a grand struggle began. Jai Mai, commander of the
fortress, came into the breach to encourage his men. The Em-
peror was seated in a gallery, which had been erected for him
on the sdbdtj and he had a musket in his hand. The face of
Jai Mai was discernible by the light which was cast upon the
spot by the fire of the guns and muskets. The Emperor took aim
at him, and so wounded him that he died upon the spot. The
garrison was disheartened by the fall of their leader, and each
man hurried to his own home. I^hey collected their wives and
children, property and effects, in one place, and burnt them. This
Digitized by VjOOQIC
328 KIZAMTJ-D DFK AHMAD.
proceeding, in the langoage of the infidels of Hind, is called
jauhar. The royal forces were now massed, and they assaulted
the breaches in several places. Many of the infidels rushed
forward to defend them, and fought most valiantly. His Majesty,
seated on the sdhdt^ beheld the exertions of his men with an
approving eye. 'Adil Muhammad Kandahar! * * * * and
otiiers exhibited great valour and daring, and received great
praise. All that night the fighting went on, bat in the morning,
which was a glorious morning, the place was subdued. The
Emperor mounted on an elephant, and, attended by his devoted
followers on foot^ entered the fortress. An order for a general
massacre was issued, and more than 8000 R&jputs who were in
the place received the reward of their deeds.^ After noon the
slaughter was stayed, and the Emperor returned to his camp,
where he remained three days. Asaf Ehfin was appointed to
rule this country, and His Majesty started for the capital, on
Tuesday, the 25th Sha'b&n.
A curious incident in this siege was this : A person was sitting
near the battery of the author of this book^ under the shelter of
a tree, with his right hand placed upon his knee. As an oppor-
tunity presented itself, he raised his thumb, covered with the
stall usually worn by archers, and just at that moment a gun
was fired from the fortress, and the ball passed within the length
of a barley-corn from his thumb, and did him no harm.
When the Emperor started to effect the conquest of Ghitor, he
vowed that if he were successful, he would make a pilgrimage to
the tomb of £hw&ja Mu'inu-d d(n Ghishti, which is at Ajmir. In
performance of this vow, he set off for Ajmir, and walked all the
way on foot. On Sunday, the 7th Ramaz&n, he reached Ajmir.
He performed all the observances of the pilgrimage, and made
the poor and needy glad with his alms and offerings. He
remained there ten days, and then departed for the capital.
' Abtf-1 Fasl states that the nnmher of the slaia amoonted to near «l ktudr
(30,000) ; bat perhaps «iA hatdr^ 3000, is meaat.— ^it^r-fM/jno, toL ii p. 407. See
«Cpra, p. 174.
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TABAEAT-I AEBARr. 329
Thirteenth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Thursday, 14th
Bamaz&n, 975 h. (14th March, 1568). At the beginning of this
year the Emperor left Ajmir, and proceeded by ¥ray of Mewdt
towards Kgnk. On his journey, he passed a jungle which was
the abode of lions {sJier) and tigers {bahar). A terrible tiger
(ehery came out, and His Majesty'^s followers, who were con-
stantly in attendance upon him, discharged their arrows and
stretched him in the dust. His Majesty then gave orders, that
if a like thing should occur again, they were not to shoot until
he directed them. As they went on, another tiger («Aer), larger
and fiercer than the first, came out and made towards the
Emperor. No one of the attendants dared to fire without
orders. The tiger-hunting King alighted from his horse and
levelled a musket at the beast. The ball grazed the animaPs
fi^ice, inflicting a slight wound, which caused him to rush from
his place towards His Majesty. The Emperor fired a second
time, and brought him down. At this juncture, ^Adil Muham-
mad Kandahfiri, boldly placed an arrow to his bow, and faced
the animal, which then turned away from the Emperor and
attacked him. It brought him to the ground, and was about
to take his head in his mouth. That brave fellow, in this
supreme moment, thrust his hand into the animal's mouth, and
sought to draw his dagger to stab him in the belly. But the
handle of the dagger stuck in the sheath, and the beast gnawed
the flesh and skin of the hand which was in his mouth. Not-
withstanding this, 'Adil managed to draw his dagger, and in-
flicted some deep wounds in the animal's belly. Brave men
gathered round on all sides and finished him. 'Adil Muhammad
received a sword-cut besides the wounds the tiger had given him.
He lay for some time on the bed of pain before he died of his
wounds.
After the tiger hunt the royal camp moved towards Alwar, and
1 It was in all probability a tiger, although the author would aeem to use the
words 8h4r and bahar dislinotiyely.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
330 KiZAMir-p DrN ahmad.
directions were given that it should proceed thither, while the
Emperor himself went to pay a visit to Shaikh Niz&m N&maali.
He then returned to the camp, and proceeded with the army to
the capital.
After a stay of some months at ^ra, the Emperor resolved
to attack the fort of Bantambhor, renowned as one of the
strongest and highest fortresses of Hindust4n. An order was
issued for the assembling of those troops which had not been
engaged in the siege of Ghitor. Ashraf Kh&n Mir^munM and
S&dik Kh&n were sent on this service with a large portion of
the Imperial army. When these amir8 had marched several
stages, intelligence reached the Emperor of disturbances created
by the sons of Muhammad Sult&n Mirzi, who had escaped from
the hands of Ghangiz "Khku, in Gujar&t,^ and had laid siege to
the fort of Ujjain, in M&lwa. The Emperor then directed that
Kalij Kh£n, with the amirs and the army that had been sent
to Bantambhor, should undertake the repression of the revolt
of the Mirzas.
The two forces united according to the order. On approach-
ing Sironj, Shah&bu-d din, the ruler of that sarkdr^ came
forth to meet them. He joined them and marched on with
them. When they encamped at S&rangpur, Sh&h Bidagh Kh&n
joined them with his forces. The army had now grown very
large. When the Mirz&s were apprised of its approach, they
raised the siege of TTjjain, and went off towards Mandu. Ma«
hammad Mur&d Kh&n and Mirz& 'Azizu-Ua, who had been
besieged in Ujjain, being thus released, came out and joined the
amirs. All marched together in pursuit of the Mirzas, who
fled before them from Mandu to the banks of the Nerbadda.
They crossed this river in such confusion that many of their
men were drowned. Just at this time Jajh&r Kh&n Hahshi
murdered Ghangiz Kh&n, the ruler of Gujar&t, in the iirpauKya
maiddn of Ahmad&b&d. When the Mirz&s heard of this, they
^ " The Afirzfc? did not get on amicably with Changd Kh&n, and were tjTannieal in
their j'dfffn, ao they fled frou him.*' — Badktmif yol. ii. pp. 106, 199.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT>I ASBARr. 331
seized the chance which it afforded, and fled to Gujar&t. The
Imperial amirs turned back from the river Nerbadda, and the
jdgirddrB of Mandu returned to their jdgira. KaKj Kh&n and
the other amira proceeded to Court, and were received with
royal favour. On reaching Oujar&t, the Mirz&s first seized upon
the fort of Ghfimpanir,^ and then marched against Broach, to
which they laid seige. After a while, they by stratagem got
into their power Bustam Kh&n Bumi, who was besieged in the
fort, and put him to death.' The remainder of this transaction
will be told in its proper place.
In the course of this year Mir Muhammad Eh&n-i kal&n,
Kutbu-d din Muhammad Kh&n, and £am&l Eh&n Ghakar,
jdgirddrs of the Panj&b, were summoned to Court. They
hastened to obey, and in Babi'u4 awwal, 976 h., they arrived
and made their offerings. Husain Kuli Kh&n and his brother
Isma^il Eh&n were summoned from N&gor, and appointed to
the government of the Panj&b instead of them. The jdgir of
Muhammad Eh&n-i kal&n, in the aarkdr of Sambal, became a
tankhtcdh. When the Emperor marched to conquer Bantambhor,
Husain Euli Kh&n was his personal attendant in the campaign.
But after the reduction of Bantambhor, and the return of His
Majesty to Agra, Husain Kuli Khan and his brother Isma'il
KulI Kh&n took leave and departed to the Panj&b. On the
1st Bajab, the Emperor marched from Agra against Bantambhor.
Proceeding to Dehli, he stayed there some days and went out to
a katnurgha hunt, in the neighbourhood of P&lam, where four
or five thousand animals were killed.
Fourteenth year of the Reign,
The beginning of this year agreed with 5th Bamaz&n, 976 H.
(22nd February, 1669). The Emperor marched at the opening
* "And BvLXvXr—Akhar-ndfMi, Tol. ii. p. 418.
* The fort was held bj Bustam Eh&n, a Tnrkl Bkye^ in whose house the sister of
Changiz Kh&n had taken refugee. He fought braTely, and held out for two yean;
but being left without help, he was at length obliged to surrender, and was then *< in
a base and dastardly manner put to death.""ul^^ar-M((ffMy yoL ii. p. 418.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
332 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
of the year towards Bantambhor, and in a short period arrived
at the foot of the fort. The place was invested, batteries raised,
adbdte constructed, and several breaches were effected by batter-
ing with cannon. «
B&i Surjan, the commander of the fort, when he observed the
progress of the siege, was brought down from the pinnacle of
his pride and insolence, and he sent out his two sons, Dddh
and Bhoj by name, to ask for terms. His Majesty received
kindly the two young men, who had come to seek his meroy^
and pardoned their transgressions. He sent Husain Kuli Kh&n,
who had received the title of Kh&n-jah&n, into the fort to give
assurances to B&i Snijan. He did so, and brought the R4i to
wait upon the Emperor, when he made a frank submission, and
was enrolled among the royal servants.^ On Wednesday, 3rd
Shaww&l, the conquest of the fortress was accomplished, and on
the next day the Emperor went in to examine the place. He
placed Mihtar Kh&n in command of the fortress, and then pre-
pared to return to the capital. Leaving the army under the
command of £hw&ja Aminu-d din Mahmud, who was entitled
£hw&ja-jah&n, and Muzaffar £hdn^ the Emperor left them to
conduct the army back to the capital, while he made a hasty
journey to pay a visit to the tomb of F4izu-1 anw&r Ehw&ja
Mu^'inu-d din Ghishti. He remained there a week, and then
departed for -^gra, where he arrived on Wednesday, 4th Z£-I
ka*da, 976. Darb&r Kh&n, one of his personal attendants, had
been compelled by sickness to continue with the army, and he
died before His Majesty reached Agra. Upon his return His
Majesty went into the Eh&n's dining-hall, and made a princely
provision for his &mily.
Foundation of the town ofFathpiir.
The Emperor had several sons bom to him, but none of them
had lived. Shaikh Salim Ghishti, who resided at the town of
Sikri, twelve ko^ from Agra, had gladdened him with the
^ See Blochmann'B Ain-i Akbari, yoI. i. p* 408,
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TABAXXT-I AKBABr. 333
promise of a son. The Emperor went to visit the Shaikh several
times, and remained there ten or twenty days on each occasion.
He commenced a fine building there on the top of a hill, near
the Shaikh's monastery. The Shaikh also commenced a new
monastery and a fine mosque, which at the present day has no
eqnal in the world, near the royal mansion. The amirs also
bailt houses and mansions for themselves. When one of the
Emperor's wives became pregnant, he conveyed her to the
dwelling of the Shaikh, and left her there. Sometimes he stayed
there himself, sometimes at Agra. He gave the name of
Fathpur to Sikrf, and built a bazar and baths there.
Conquest of Kdlir^far.
This is a strong fortress, and many former Sult&ns had been
ambitious of taking it. Sher Kh&n Afgh&n (Sher Sh&h) besieged
it for a year, but was killed in the attempt to take it, as has
been narrated in the history of his reign. During the inter-
regnum of the Afgh&ns, R&j& Bam Ghandar^ had purchased
the fort at a high price fi*om Bijilli^ Eh&n, the adopted son
(pisar-i khwdnda) of Bih&r Khan Afgh&n. The renown of the
conquest of the forts of Chitor and Bantambhor spread through
the world, and the men of the Imperial army who held jdgirs
in the neighbourhood of K&linjar were constantly forming plans
for the capture of that fort, and were anxious to begin the war.
Bij& Bam Ghandar was a prudent and experienced man, and
considered himself an adherent of the Imperial throne. He sent
by his envoy the keys of the fortress and suitable offerings, with
congratulations for the victories achieved, to the Emperor. On
the same day the custody of the fortress was given into the
charge of Majniin Khan K&ksh&I, one of the jdgirddra of that
quarter, and a firiendly /armdn was sent to B&j& B&m Ghandar.
The fortress came into the possession of the Emperor in the
month of Sa&r, 977 h., in the fourteenth year of his reign.
» « IUj& of Panna."— r. Alfi. See Blocbmann'a Ain-i Akbarl, vol. i. p. 400.
* << 'Ali Eh&n, the reputed son of Bih&r Kh&n 'Azam Hum&ytin, and son-in-law
of Sher Kh&n [Sher Sh&h]."— Z Alfi.
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334 KfZi(Mtr-D DFN AHMAD.
Birth of Prince Suttdn Salim Mirzd.
On Wednesday, 18th of Itab{*u-1 awwal, 977 h., and the four-
teenth year of the reign, when seven hoars of the day had
passed, the exalted prince Salt&n Salim Mirz& was bom in the
house of Shaikh Salim Ghishti, in the town of Fathpdr. The
Emperor himself was in ^gra at the time, and the joyful tidings
was conveyed to him by Shaikh Ibrdhim, son-iu-law of Shaikh
Salim, who was right royally rewarded. In thanksgiving for this
happy event, gifts were distributed among the people, prisoners
were set free, and great feasts were held, which were kept up for
seven days with great pleasure and rejoicing. The date of the
birth is found in the words Shdh-i dl i Ttmiir. Khw&ja Husain
composed an ode, of which the first line contained the date of
the Emperor^s accession, and the second the date of the prince's
birth. The Khw&ja received a present of two laea of iankoi
for this ode, and several other poets received rewards for their
productions. The Emperor made Fathpur^ a royal abode, raised
a stone fortification round it, and built some splendid edifices,
so that it became a great city. Before the prince was born, the
Emperor had resolved in his own mind, that if the Almighty
granted his wishes^ he would go a pilgrimage on foot to the
shrine of Murddu-l anwar Kutbu-l wdBtim Ehw&ja Mu''inu-d din
Chishti. Having prepared his ofierings, on Friday, the 12th
Sha'b&n, 977, he started on foot from Agra for Ajmir. Every
day he travelled seven or eight kos. He visited the shrine, and
performed the usual observances immediately upon his arrival.
He passed some days there, and then left Ajmir for Dehli,
where he arrived in Eamaz&n, 977.
Fifteenth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Saturday, the
6th Shaww&l, 977 h. (14th March, 1570). • • • On Thuraday,
the 3rd Muharram, 978, the star of good fortune shone, and the
^ Now known as Fathptir-Sikii. Bee tifprd, p. 333.
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TABAKAT-I AKBAET. 335
Emperor had another son, Prince Mur&d, borne to him in the
house of Shaikh Salim. In gratitude for this blessing, he opened
the hand of liberality, and gave away many munificent gifts,
and men were enriched by his bounty. The nobles and officers
of the Court presented offerings suitable to their respective
ranks, and received robes of honour. Maul&n& K&sim Arsl&n
on this occasion wrote a couplet, of which the first line contained
the date of the birth of Prince Salim, and the second that of
Prince Mur&d.
March of the Emperor to Ajmlr.
The Emperor was accustomed, wherever he might be, to pay a
visit every year to the tomb of Mu'Inu-1 hakk wau-d din Hasan
Sanjari at Ajrair. In this happy year, on the 8th Ilabi'*u-l
&khir, 978, he started for that place, in order to show his grati-
tude for the boon granted to him. He stayed twelve days at
Fathpur, in order to make some necessary arrangements for his
journey. He arrived at Ajmir in due course. To show his
favour, and to improve the condition of the place, he ordered a
strong wall to be built round it, and a palace to be erected in it
for his own residence. The amirs and khans, and attendants of
the Court, vied with each other in erecting dwellings there. He
distributed the villages and lands and houses of Ajmir among
his amirs, to enable them to pay the expenses of the new
buildings. On Friday, 4th Jum&da-l dkhir, he left Ajmir, and
arrived in sight of N&gor on the 16th. Here there is a large
tank, which he ordered his soldiers to dig and fill with water. He
himself inspected the tank, and gave it the name of Shukr taldo.
While he was thus staying at Nagor, Chandar Sen, son of
R&i M&ldeo ^ came to pay his allegiance, and make his offerings.
B&J& Kaly&n Mai, the B&j4 of Bikanir, also came with his son,
Br&i Singh, to wait upon His Majesty, and present his tribute.
The loyalty and sincerity of both father and son being manifest^
1 <« Bnler of M&rw&r.''— Bad&(ini, toI. ii. p. 133.
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336 NIZiCMU-D DIN AHMAD.
the Emperor married Kaly&n Mai's daughter. For fifty days he
shed the light of his justice and equity upon the poor people of
Nagor. From thence he proceeded to Ajodhan, to pay a visit
to the tomb of Shaikh Faridu-d din Mas'ud Gttnj-i shakar. B&i
£aly&n Mai, who was so fat that he could not ride on horseback,
now received permission to return to Bikanir ; but his son was
ordered to remain in attendance upon His Majesty, in which
he received high promotion, as will be related in the proper
place.
There were many wild asses (gor-khar) in this desert country,
and His Majesty, who had never hunted this animal, was
desirous of doing so. One day as he was journeying on, the
scouts brought information that there was a herd of wild asses
in the vicinity of the camp. He immediately mounted a fleet
courser, and after a ride of four or five kos^ came in sight
of the herd. He got off his horse, and commanded all his
followers to remain quiet. He himself, with four or five
Biluchis, who were acquainted with the country, approached
the herd with guns in their hands. At the first shot he struck
an ass, and the remainder of the herd, being frightened by the
noise, dispersed. His Majesty cautiously approached, and struck
another, and so on, until sixteen asses fell by his hand. That
day he travelled nearly seventeen kos in hunting, and at the
close returned to the camp. By his order the sixteen asses were
brought to the camp in carts, and their flesh was distributed in
front of the royal tent among the amirs and courtiers. Then
he proceeded towards Ajodhan ; and on arriving in sight of the
place, he went on immediately, and performed all the ceremonies
of pilgrimage, and distributed his bounty among the poor. • * *
From thence he proceeded towards Lahore, and when he
arrived at Dipdlpur, the jdgirddr of that pargana^ Mink 'Aziz
Muhammad Kokalt&sh, who bore the title of 'Azam £h&n, and
was well known as Mirzd Koka, prepared an entertainment, and
begged him to stay there a few days and rest. His Majesty
graciously consented, and remained there. For some days
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TABAKAT-I AKBAKf. 337
feasting went on, and upon the last day splendid offerings were
presented to him. Arab and Persian horses, with saddles of
silver; huge elephants, with chains of gold and silver, and
housings of velvet and brocade ; and gold and silver, and pearls
wid jewels, and rubies and garnets of great price : chairs of
gold, and silver vases, and vessels of gold and silver; stuffs of
Europe, Turkey, and China, and other precious things beyond
all conception. Presents of similar kind also were presented for
the young princes and the Emperor's wives. All the ministers
and attendants and dignitaries received presents, and every
soldier of the army also participated in the bounty.
Sixteenth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Sunday, 17th
Shaww&l, 978 h. (13th March, 1571 a.d.)
At the beginning of this year His Majesty departed from
Dipalpur for Lahore, and Hasan Kuli Kh&n, the governor of
that city, hastened forth to receive him. Leaving his camp at
Malkapur, the Emperor went on speedily to Lahore. He passed
that day and night in the house of Hasan Kuli, and next day
the Kh&n presented his gifts. On the following day the Emperor
returned to the camp, and after spending a few days in the
vicinity of Lahore, he set off for His&r-Firozah, on a visit to
the shrine of Khw&ja Mu'inu-d d{n.
N&hid Begam was wife of Muhibb 'All Kh&n son of Mir
Khalifa, and her mother was wife of Mirzd 'f sa Tarkbdn, the
ruler of Thatta. Mirzd ''t^k being dead, Nahid Begam had
received leave from His Majesty about a year before this date
to go to Sind, to see her mother, and bring the daughter of
Mirzd 'fs& to pay homage to the Emperor. Muhammad Bakf
Tarkhan now occupied the seat of his father, and would have
nothing to do with N4hid Begam. She therefore returned in
anger to the Emperor, and made a statement of the harshness
and tyranny of Muhammad Baki, and of the disrespect he had
Bhown ta the Emperor's servants. She said that if the Emperor
VOL. T. 22
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338 KIZiCMU-D Dm ahmad.
would permit and support her husband Muhibb ^Al( Efa&n, he
could easily effect the conquest of Thatta. As N&hid Begam
was returning from Thatta, she had some conversation at Bakar
with Snlt4n Mahmud Bakan, who was one of the officers of
Mirz& Sh&h Husain Arghiin, and his koka; and, after the death
of Mirz& Sh&Ii, Bakar remained in his possession. This Sult&u
Mahmud Sal&i Samarkand! told N&hid Begam that if Muhibb
'All Kh&n would undertake the conquest of Thatta^ he would
join and assist him, and that he would have no need of any
further support. In consequence of this promise, N&hid Begam
was yery desirous of going to Sind. Muhibb 'Ali Kh&n had
for a long time given up the military life, so the Emperor
granted him a banner and a kettle-drum, and he gave him a
jdgir of fifty lacs of tanker in the sarkdr of Multdn, towards the
expense of the campaign. He also sent with him his daughter's
son Muj&hid, a young man of resolution and courage, and he
wrote a farm&n to Sa'id Kh&n, the ruler of Mult&n, directing
him to support Muhibb 'Ali Kh&n.
When the Emperor left the Panjib for Fathpur his royal
residence (ddru-l khildfat\ he sent Muhibb 'Ali on his expedi-
tion. Upon arriving at his jdgir in Mult&n, Muhibb 'Ali set
about collecting men, and got together nearly 400 horse. Rely-
ing upon Sult&n Mahmud Bakari, he wrote letters to him, and
began his march. But Sultan Mahmud was adverse to the
entrance of any Imperial forces into his territory, so, disregarding
the promises he had made to N&h(d Begam, he sent to say that
he would not allow Muhibb 'All to pass through his country ;
but that if Muhibb 'Ali would march by way of Jesalmir, he
would send his army to him, and render him all the assistance
he could.
Muhibb 'AH, and his grandson Muj&hid, took a bold course,
and proceeded towards Bakar. Sult&n Mahmud sent his
whole army to oppose them, but his men were defeated, and
obliged to seek refuge in the fort of M&nila. Muj&hid and
Muhibb 'Ali Kh&n besieged the fort for six months, and at
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TAfilKflCT.I AKBAEr. 339
length obtained possession of it by capitulation. At this time
Mub&rak Eh&n, a slave of Saltdn Mahmud^s^ who acted as his
raiil^ being aggrieved with bis master, went and joined Muhibb
^Ali. The latter having increased his force, laid siege to Bakar.
Solt&n Mahmdd sent oat his army, amounting to nearly 2000
horse and 4000 foot, archers, and gunners. They were defeated
in battle and driven back into the fort For three years Sult&n
Mahmdd sometimes daily, sometimes every two or three days,
sent out armed ships and ghrdbs to fight. Three times he sent
out his whole army, horse and foot, to fight a regular battle, but
each time he was defeated. In consequence of the large number
of men which he had crowded into the fort, pestilence and sick-
nOBS^ broke out and became very fatal, so that 500 to 1000
persons died daily. At lengthy in the year 983, Mahmud him-
self died, and the fort came into the possession of the Emperor's
adherents.
When the Emperor left the Panj&b and proceeded to Fathpur,
Mun'im Khdn £hdn-kh&n&n came from Jaunpur, bringing
Sikandar Kh&n with him. The ofiences of Sikandar Kh&n were
pardoned, and the Jdgir of Lucknow was conferred upon him.
£h&n-kh&n&n quickly returned to secure his Bengal frontier.
Sikandar Khan also todc his leave, and was sent along with
Kh&n-khan&n to his Jdgir. Each received a jewelled sword-
belt and four horses with golden saddles. Soon after his arrival
at Lucknow, Sikandar Kk&n fell sick, and died on the 10th
Jum&da-l awwal, 979 h.
Seventeenth year of tfie Reign,
The beginning of this year corresponded with Tuesday, 25th
Shaww&l, 979 h. (11th March, 1572 a.d.)
Campaign in Cfujardt.^
In the Court of the Emperor conversation continually turned
upon the state of affairs in Gujarat, and information was often
I " 'ufitnat 0 bimdri:* Badfrfini (vol. ii. p. 135) calls it « icahd.**
* ** Gojar&t had for a long time bad no legitimate master, and its amirt were quarrel-
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340 NIZAMTJ-D DIN AHMAD.
brought about ibe oppression and \?ilfalne8s of its petty rulers,
and about the ruin of its towns and cities. Now that His
Majesty's mind was set quite at rest by the suppression of rebels,
and the reduction of their lofty forts, he turned his attention
to the conquest of Gujar&t. The order was given for the as-
isembling of the army, and on the 20th Safar^ 980, in the
eighteenth year of the reign, the Emperor started and pro-
ceeded, enjoying the chase on his way, to Ajmfr. On the 15th
Babi'u-1 awwal^ he paid a visit to the tomb of Khw&ja Mu'inu-d
din Ghishti, and gladdened the hearts of the shaikhs and atten-
dants with his munificent gifts. Next day he made a visit to
the tomb of Saiyid Husain Kh&ng-saw&r, a descendant of Zainu-1
'&bidin, which is on the top of a hill at Ajmlr. Next day, Mir
Muhammad Eh&n Atka, better known by the title of Eh&n-i
kal&n, was sent on in advance with 10,000 horse, and His
Majesty followed on the 22nd Babfu-s s&ni.
Two stages from Nagor, messengers brought him the news
that in the night of Wednesday, 2nd Jum&dal awwal, a son
was bom to him [at Ajmir].^ He spent several days in rejoicing,
and made many happy by his munificence. As the child had
been born in the house of Shaikh D&niy&I^ one of the most
pious and celebrated shaikhs of the time, he gave the prince the
name of D&niy&I. After the rejoicings were over, he again
marched and arrived at Nagor, on the 9th Jum&da-l awwal.
There he remained fourteen days employed in arranging for the
supply of his army.
From thence he marched to Mirath, and there he was in-
formed that when Mir Muhammad Khkn came near to Sirohi,
the B&J& of that place professed subjection and obedience, and
sent some B&jpiits as envoys to wait upon the Mir. The
envoys arrived and delivered their message. Mir Muhammad
ling with each other, and oppressing the peasants. 'Itimad Eh&n was minister of the
country, hut was not ahle to keep it in his grasp, and each chief in his own citj
considered himself supreme ruler of Gajar&t" — Tdrlkh'i AlfL
^ BadCt(ini, toL il p. 139.
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TABAEiCT-I AHBABf. 341
Eh&n gave them an appropriate answer and fine robes^ and then»
according to the etiqaette observed among the people of India,
he dismissed them with his own hand.^ One of those desperate
enyoys at that moment stabbed the Kh&a in the breast, and the
weapon pierced through to his back under the shoulder. Bah&dur
£h&n, a young man and a servant of the Eh&n, who was standing
behind Sher Ehdn, but now has his place among the nobles,
rushed forward, and seizing the B&jput, dashed him to the
ground. Muhammad S&dik Eh&n, who was seated by the side
of the £h&n, arose and despatched the accursed wretch with his
dagger. When this intelligence reached the Emperor, on the
same day he sent Lashkar Kh&n Mir-bahhsM to inquire after
Mir Muhammad Kh&n, and next day he marched forward him-
self. S&dik Muhammad Kh&n and the other amin called in
surgeons, who dressed the Kh&n's wounds, and by the Emperor^s
good fortune the severe wound was cured in fifteen days, and
the Kh&n mounted his horse with his quiver girt upon his loins.
The Emperor continued his march, and on the 8th Jum&da-s
s&n( formed a junction with the advanced force. When he
reached Sirohi, eighty B&jputs in a temple and seventy in the
B&j&^'s house, stood ready to perform the vow they had n»ade to
die. In a few moments they were all despatched. Dost Mu-
hammad, son of T&t&r Kh&n, perished in the R&j&'s house. At
this stage His Majesty resolved to send one of bis officers to
make sure of the territory of Joudhpdr, and keep the road to
Oujar&t open, so that none of the R&n&s might be able to inflict
any loss. This duty was imposed upon R&i Singh Bikaniri,^
who was sent with a strong force of Imperial troops. FarmuM
1 " When the envoy was taking leave, according to the cnstom of the country, he
ashed for pdn, and the Kh&n taking some in his hand, called him forward to give it
to him. The envoy then drew a dagger (Jamdhar) from his hoeom, and stahhed the
Kh&n in the hreast. • • • The attendants of the Kh&n killed all the followers
of the amhaasador, although they denied any complicity in the shameful deed." —
T. Alfl.
' ** R&S Singh of Bikanir was sent to Joudhpdr to keep the road to Gujar&t open,
and to prevent any annoyance from B&n& Kfka, chief of Kokanda and Kombalmir."
— Bad&dni, vol. ii. p. 146.
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342 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
were written to the amirs and jdgirddn of that province, direct*
ing them to render B&i Singh every assistance he might reqaire.
At this stage Y4r 'Ali Turkomdn, with an escort of Turko-
mans^ came as an ambassador from Snltdn Mahammad Mirzi,
and from Sh&h Tahm&sp, King of Khor&s&n, bringing with them
Arab and Persian horses, and other presents. They were
received by His Majesty with all due state and honour. The
Emperor then marched from Sirohi to Pattan Nahrwala, and
when he arrived near the fort of Dlsa, which is twenty has from
Pattan, intelligence was brought that the sons of Sher Kh&n
Ful&di had taken off their troops and families towards fdar.
The Emperor sent B&j& M&n Singh in command of a detach-
ment after them. On the 1st Rajab, 980, the array arrived in
sight of Pattan, and rested there for a week. The government
of the country was conferred upon Saiyid Ahmad Kh&n B&rha,
a man of courage and resolution, who had numerous friends and
allies among the Saiyids of Hinddst&n. At this halt Bfijd M&n
Singh returned, bringing in a large booty, which he had taken
from the remnant of the Afgh&ns.
The Emperor then marched towards Ahmad&b&d. Sher Kh&n
Ful&di had been engaged for six months besieging Ahmad&b&d,
which was held by 'Itim&d Kh&n ;^ but when he heard of the
Emperor's approach, he took to flight. The Emperor had hardly
advanced two stages from Pattan, when Sult&n Muzaffar, son
of Sult&n Mahmud Gujar&t(, whom 'Itim&d Kh&n had kept
continually in confinement, came with a great display of respect
to meet the Emperor, and on Sunday,' the 9th Bajab, was
admitted to an interview. Next day, 'Itim&d Kh&n, the ruler
of Ahraad&b&d, Mir Abd Tur&b, Saiyid Ahmad Bukh&ri, Ikhti-
y&ru-l Mulk, Malik Ashraf, Wajhu-1 Mulk, lJI6gh Kh&n Habshi,
I *< The slave and prime minister of Snlt&n Mahm(^d Gujar&ti."— Bad&itoi, toI. ii.
p. 141. He was originally a Hindu slave. See AU-i Akbari, toI. iL p. 385.
3 According to Abd-I Fazl, Sult&n Muzaffar separated from Sher Khfcn FolftdS,
and wandered about without aim or purpose. Akbar sent a party to search for him.
He was found hiding in a corn-field, and was brought to the Emperor, who treated
him very kmdij.—Akbar'ndmn. [There %$ here a henna of about eix monthe m tMa
Zueknaw edition of the Akbar^ndma,)
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TABASJCT-I AKBARr. 343
Jajh&r £h&n Habshi, and other amirs and chie& of Gujar&t,
too numerons to mention, came in to wait upon the Emperor,
and make their offerings. 'Itim&d Kh&n presented the keys of
Ahmad&b&d, and showed every sign of submission.
Thr officers of the Court were suspicious of evil designs on the
part of the Jffabshis (Abyssinians), and brought the matter to the
notice of His Majesty, and although he desired to act generously
and royally towards them, as a precaution he committed them
to the charge of some of his attendants. The Emperor then
marched on, and on Friday, 14th Bajab, pitched his camp on
the banks of the river of Ahmad&b&d. The khutba was read in
the name of the Emperor, and all the people of the city and
environs came to offer congratulations and thanksgivings. On
the 20th Bajab, Saiyid Mahmud Eh&n B&rha and Shaikh Mu-
hammad Bukh&ri brought their wives into the royal camp. On
the same day Jal&l Kh&n, wLo had been sent on an embassy to
a B&n&, returned.
Ibr&him Husain Mirz& and Muhammad Husain Mirz& held
Broachy Baroda, and Surat^ in defiance of the Emperor, so he
resolved to free the country of Gajar&t from their rebellious
power. On Monday, 2nd Sha^b&n, he started firom the river of
Ahmad&b&d, and marched towards E[ambay. 'Itim&d Kh&n
and other of the Gujar&t amirs were, at the request of some of
the great officials, allowed to remain behind in Ahmad&bdd for
a few days to arrange their affairs. Seizing this opportunity,
Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk, one of the chief nobles of Gujar&t, fled on the
4th Sha'ban from Ahmad&b&d to Ahmadnagar. As no reliance
could be placed on the nobles of Gujar&t, 'Itim&d Kh&n was
given into the custody of Sh&hb&z Eh&n Kambu. On the 6th
the Emperor reached Kambay. He went to look at the sea, and
leaving Kanibay on the 12th, he reached Baroda on the 14th.
After reflecting upon the best means of guarding and governing
the country of Gujar&t, he appointed Mirza ''Aziz Muhammad
> Ibr&him HirzCt held Baroda, Mohammad HuBain Min& held Sarat, and Shah
]lirz& had Ch&mpanlr. — Akbar'ndma,
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344 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
Kokalt&sh the Khdn-i *azim to be the governor of the couutiy,
and especially of its capital Ahmad&b&d.
A detachment sent to invest Surat.
After the departure of the '^Azam-khdn, the Emperor deter-
mined upon attacking the fortress of Surat, which was the home
and stronghold of the Mirz&s. To effect this purpose lie sent
Saiyid Mahmud Kh&n B&rha, Shah Kuli Khan Mahram Kh&n-i
'dlam, R&ja Bhagw&n D&s, Kunwar M&n Singh * * • and
several others, to overpower Husain Mirzd, who was in Surat.
*Next day, 17th Sha^b&n, when one watch of the night was
passed, intelligence was brought in that Ibr&him Mirz4 Kh&n,
having heard at Broach of the Emperor's advance, had murdered
Bustam Eh&n Bumi,^ and then left the town, intending to pass
about eight kos distance from the Emperor^s camp, and to raise
disturbances and rebellion elsewhere'.
On hearing this, the Emperor's wrath was kindled. He
instantly gave orders that Khwdja-jahdn, Shuj&'at Kh&n, Kalij
Kh&n, and Sadik Kh&n should take charge of the young prince
Salim, while he went to chastise Ibr&him Mirza. He took with
him Maliku-sh Shark Grujar4tl, who was well acquainted with
the roads, and he sent Sh&hb&z Kh&n Mir Bakhshi in all haste,
to recall to his* side Saiyid Muhammad Kh&n, and the forces
which had marched against Surat.* The remainder of that night,
and the greater part of the next day, he kept up the pursuit for
a long distance. When night came on, he arrived with forty
horsemen on the banks of the river Mahindri.' Ibr&him Husain
Mirzd was in the town of Sarndl, on the other side of the river.
When they heard this, the Emperor's followers endeavoured to
conceal themselves.
At this crisis, Saiyid Mahmud Eh&n B&rha, Euli Eh&n
Mahram Kh&n-i'&lam, Baj& Bhagw&n Di&^ Kunwar Man Singh,
^ '* Who was desirous of returning to his allegiance.*'— u^^^or-iM^ma.
' The force he took with him nambered aboat 2000 meiL^Akhmr^ndnw,
* Ab6-I Fazl calls the rirer also « Sak&nir. *'—/&. There is a "Sinnole" on the
llanjam river, thirty miles south-east of Ahmaduagar.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TADAEAT-I AEBABT. 345
* * * Bhoj the son of Surjan, and others of the force sent
against Surat, by a forced march came np and joined the
Emperor. !Kunwar M&n Singh, at his own solicitation, was
placed in command of the advanced guard. Although the
whole of his followers did not number more than 100 men,^
the Emperor, without hesitation, determined to attack. They
dashed into the river and crossed over.
Ibr&him Husain Mirzd, who had with him about 1000 horse-
men, on perceiving this bold movement, went out of the town of
Sam&l by another road, telling his men that he intended to give
battle in the open. The road between the river and the fort
was very broken, so Kunwar M&n Singh, and the advance under
his command, took another road, and the Emperor passed by a
road to the gate of the town by the water-side. Some of the
enemy, whose blood was up, made a stand in the street, and
showed fight. Makbul Kh&n, a Kalmuck slave, who on that
day went in front of the Emperor, cut one of them down, and
wounded several others.
It was now discovered that Ibr&him Husain had quitted the
town, and the Emperor gave orders for the pursuit. The
troops accordingly left the walls and went out into the plain,
and there the two parties confronted each other. Ibr&him
Husain made an attack upon B&b& Eh&n E&ksh&l, who had
been sent forward with a party of bowmen. Although these
made a stout resistance, they were driven back a short distance.
But every man of the Imperial force fought desperately, and
killed a great many of the enemy. Bhfjpat, son of E&j& Bihfir
Mai, a very brave young man, made a charge upon the enemy,
and fell. Emboldened by his fall, the enemy renewed his attack.
But the royal forces were in a contracted spot, where three
horsemen could not pass abreast, as it was all hedged in with
thorns. The Emperor had, with great courage, gone to the
^ The text says distinctly that the whole of the Emperor*B men did not exceed one
handred. Firishta makes them 156. Bad&iini (vol. ii. p. 142), however, states that
U&n Sing crossed the river with 100 men. See Extract from Akbar'tidma^ infrd.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
346 KIZAHU-D DFK AHHAD.
front, and "Rkji, Bhagw&n D&s had kept with him. Three of
the enemy's horsemen now charged them, and one of them
attacked the B&ja. As his adversary was entangled among
the thorns, B&jd Bhagw&n D&s horled his spear at him and
severely woanded him, so that he withdrew. The other two
assaulted His Majesty, who received them so valiantly that
they were obliged to make off.
At this time, Makbul Khan Ghal&m and Snrokh^ Badakhshi
joined His Majesty, and he sent them in parsuit of his assailants.
The royal forces, seeing the danger in which the Emperor had
been placed, were roused to desperation, and made a fierce
onslaught upon the enemy. Ibrahim Husain Mirz& was dis-
heartened, and took to flight. Some brave men pursued him,
and cut down several men on their way. But the night came
on darker than the fate of that band, so the Emperor gave
orders to stop the pursuit. Ibr&h(m Husain Kh&n, glad to save
his life, made off with a few persons by the Ahmadnagar road
to Sirohi. The Emperor went into the town of Sam&l, and
offered thanks for his victory. Every man who served in this
engagement received his reward in increased rank and in j'dgirs.
Next day the Emperor started on his return to the royal
camp, but he sent on in advance Surokh Badakhshi, whose con-
duct in this affair had gained the royal approbation, to carry
news of the victory to the princes. When the news arrived,
the princes and the ladies of the harem^ and the amirs and the
officials, were filled with joy sufficient to last them their lives.
On Wednesday, the 18th Sha'ban, when one watch of the night
was passed, the Emperor rejoined his camp at Baroda. Next
day he conferred a banner and a kettle-drum on B&j& Bhagw&n
D&s, who had so greatly distinguished himself in this action.
March against Surat.
The fortress of Surat is small, but exceedingly strong and
secure, and remarkable among fortresses. It is said, that a slave
1 One MS. inyariablj oalLi him « Iraj."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAXiCT-I ASBAKr. 347
of SuIi&Q Mahmdd Gnjar&tl, Sa&r J(ki by name, who received
the title of Khad4wand Kh&n, built this foiiress on the sea-
shore ^ in the year 947, in order to resist the attacks of the
Europeans, for before the fort was built, the Europeans did all
kinds of mischief to the Musulm&ns. When Ehud&wand Kh&n was
engaged in the erection of the fort^ the Europeans several times
fitted out ships to attack it, but could not succeed in their object.
Khud&wand Kh&n then called for his architect, a very clever man,
to provide for the security of the fort. After a little reflection, the
careful builder determined on his plan. On the two sides of the
fort which face the land, he formed ditches reaching to the water,
which were twenty yards (dard)* wide, and filled with water ; they
were built of stone, chunam, and burnt bricks. The thickness
of the double walls ^ is five yards, and the height twenty yards,
and these are likewise built of stone, chunam, and burnt brick.
The thickness of the four walls is fifteen yards, and the height
twenty yards. It is a remarkable circumstance that each stone
is firmly fastened to the next with cramps of iron, having molten
lead poured into the interstices. The battlements and embra^
sures are formed of stone, and are formidable to look at. On
the top of the tower there is a ehaukandi^^ which, in the opinion
of Europeans, is an invention of the Portuguese. When the
Europeans were unable to prevent the erection of the fortress
by force of arms, they ofiered large sums of money to prevent
the raising of this structure. But Khud&wand Kh&n, in con-
tempt of the Europeans, rejected their application and raised the
structure.
After the death of Changiz Eh&n, the fortress came into the
1 « On the shore of the Pendaa gulf," but it is really on the river T&pti, twenty
miles from the sea.
* Bad&iinI (rol. ii. p. 146) uses "gaz" as the equivalent of "dara*.**
^ This word is used for the howda of an elephant, and so by inference may mean
a watch tower or a cupola ; or perhaps it was something in derision of Christianity.
Bad&6ni uses the word ** ffhurfa, upper room," as an equivalent. See Sir H. Elliot's
note in the Extract from Bad&dni, infrd.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
318 KIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
possession of the Mirz&s. When the Emperor marched into
Gujar&t, the Mirz&s placed all their soldiers in the place, and
left it under the Command of Ham-zab&n, who had formerly
been one of the orderlies {korchidn) of the Emperor Hum&yun,
but had fled from the Imperial Court, and joined the rebels.
The Mirz&s themselves did their best to stir up war and strife
outside.
When Ibr&him Husain Mirzd was defeated and put to flight
at Sarnal, the Emperor returned to Baroda, and renewed his
design of conquering Surat. He sent forward Sh&h Kuli Eh&n
and S&dik Eh&n, with instructions to invest the fort so that
no one could get out. Upon this nK)veroent becoming known
to the garrison, Gulrukh Begam, daughter of Prince E&mr&n
and wife of Ibr&him Husain Mirzi, took her son Muzaffar Kh&n
Mirz& with her, and fled to the Dekhin before the arrival of the
Imperial forces. When the amirs heard of her escape, Sh&h
Kuli Kh&n Mahram pursued her for fifty kos, and returned
unsuccessful, but some of the Begam's servants fell into his
hands. Some days afterwards the Emperor sent B&ja Todar
Mai to examine and ascertain precisely the inlets and outlets of
the fortress. After a week he returned and made his report.*
His Majesty, relying on the help of the Almighty, left Baroda
on the 25th Sha'b&n, and encamped at the distance of a kos
from Surat on the 18th Bamaz&n. On the same night he went
up and reconnoitred the fort. He distributed the batteries
among his amirSj and three days afterwards he moved his camp,
and pitched his tent so near the fortress that cannon shot and
musket balls could reach it. But the chief carpet-spreader
brought to his knowledge through the amirs that there was near
at hand a tank called Goli-t&l&b, and although the bank of the
tank was close to the fort, the uneven ground and the trees
would prevent balls from reaching it. So the order was given
for the removal of the royal tents to this spot.
^ He considered its redaction an easy matter, not requiring the presence of the
Emperor.-— ^A:6a;--fu//na. Bad&dnS, vol. ii. p. 144.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 349
The siege was pressed os, and in a short time the way for
drawing water was closed. After it had gone on for nearly two
months, the besiegers advanced tlieir batteries, so that every
way of ingress or egress was closed. (The soldiers and the
followers of the amirs collected a vast quantity of earth, and
raised a high mound, which commanded the fort. And the
gunners and musleteers stationed upon the mound kept up a
fire that greatly harassed the garrison, and prevented the men
from moving about or bringing anything up. Every hole big
enough for a mouse was closed. The miners pushed their mines
under the bastions, and made such progress that the capture of
the place was a mere matter of to-day or to-morrow. When
the garrison perceived the state of affairs),^ they were reduced to
the greatest alarm and distress.
The wretched disloyal Ham-zab&n and all the people in the
fort sent out Maul&na Niz&mu-d din L&ri, who was a student
and an eloquent man, to sue for quarter. The Maul&nd was
conducted to the royal tent, and made his plea for mercy through
the amirs and officials. The chief amirs reminded His Majesty
that the batteries had been advanced very forward, and when
they saw that he was inclined to mercy, they remarked that the
garrison had resisted and fought with all their might so long as
they had any power ; and now that they saw that the fall of the
place was imminent, they were ready to beg for mercy. His
Majesty, in his gentleness and humanity, granted the petition.
Mauland Niz&mu-d din L&ri was allowed to pay his homage to
the Emperor, and, being dismissed, he returned to the fortress
with the glad news of quarter having been conceded.
A royal order was then issued for E&sim 'Ali Kh&n and
£hw&ja Daulat N&iir to proceed into the fortress with the
^ The passage in parenthesis is not given in the M S. of the E. I. Lihrary, bnt is
found in the margin of the Nawah of Jhajhar's copy, from which Sir H. £lliot*s was
transcribed. It is written in a different hand from that of the MS., and does not fit
in rery well with the context ; bnt it is found in Bad&dni (yol. ii. p. 144). There
are other similar additions, which are in accord with Bad&(inS, and the probability is
that they have been borrowed from his work.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
350 NIZAMU-D DTH AHMAD.
Maal&n&, to give assurances to Ham-zab&n and the men of the
garrison, and to bring them out with them. An order was also
given for a party of trustworthy clerks to be sent in to seize
upon all property, live stock and dead stock, and take care that
nothing was lost. The names of all the people in the plaoe
were written down, and the list was presented to the Emperor.
Kasim 'All and Khw&ja Daulat N&zir, by order of His Majesty,
brought Ham-zab&n and all the men before him, and Ham-
zab&n, for all his fluency, hung down his head with shame, and
could not speak. In gratitude for the victory, the Emperor
pardoned the common people and inhabitants of the place, but
Ham-zab&n and some others, who were the instigators of all the
strife, were punished and kept in custody.^ This conquest was
effected on the 23rd Shaww&l, in the year 980.'
Next day the Emperor went in to inspect the fortress. After
much consideration and examination, he gave orders for the
necessary repairs and improrements. During his inspection
some large mortars (deg) and guns {zarba-zan) attracted his
attention. Those mortars bore the title of Sulaim&ni, from the
name of Sulaiman Sult&n of Turkey. When he made his
attempt to conquer the ports of Gujar&t, he sent these mortars
and some guns,' which are in the fort of Jun&garh, with a large
army by sea. As the Turks were unable to overcome the diffi-
culties and obstacles they encountered, and were obliged to
return, they left these mortars and the gun which is now in
Jun&garh on the sea- shore, and returned to their country. The
mortars remained upon the sea-shore until Khud&wand Kh&n
built the fortress of Surat, when he placed them in the fort.
The one whicli was left in the country of Surath ^ was taken to
' The tongao of Ham-zab&n was cut out. — Akhar-ndina of Abt&-1 Fazl and FakL
' The siege having lasted one month and serenteen days. — Akbar-ndma.
' The plural is here used, but it would seem that only one gun was taken to
Jnn&garh.
* The names ^* Surat " and " Sdrath " are identical, both being deriyed from tha
Sanskrit Surdthtra; but as they belong to yery different places, a distinction u
spelling has been maintained. '< Surat " is the city ; *< Sdrath " is a pnbU or dialcieft
of Kattiw&r, of which Jun&garh is the chief town.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT.I ASBABT. 351
the fort of Jan&garh by the ruler of that country. As there wa«
no great necessity for these mortars in the fort of Surat, the
Emperor gave orders for their being removed to Agra. On the
same day he placed the custody of the fort and the government
of the country in the hands of Kalij Eh&n. On the last day
of the month B&j& Bih&r Jid, B&J& of the country of BagUna,
captured and sent to His Majesty^s presence Sharafu-d din
Husain Mirzd, who for t^i years past had been engaged in
various turbulent and rebellious proceedings. His Majesty^s
anger had been roused by the disturbances of the country's
peace, so he censured the Mirz& and placed him under restraint.
When the Emperor had settled to his satisfaction all the
afiairs of the province, on Monday, 4th Zi-1 ka'da, 980, he
marched towards Ahmad&b&d. When he came to Broach, the
mother of Ghangiz Kh&n complained to him that Jajh&r Eh&n
Habshi had unjustly killed her son, and the order was given for
Jajh&r Eh&n's being brought up to answer the charge.^ Upon
being questioned, Jajhar Kh&n acknowledged the deed, and the
Emperor, in his indignation, ordered him to be cast under the
feet of an elephant.
Various Events that occurred during the Siege of Surat,
While the Emperor was engaged in the siege of Surat, several
events occurred. Among them was the journey of Ibrahim
Husain Mirzd to Hindust4n, for the purpose of raising disturb-
ances. After his defeat at Sarn&l, Ibrahim fled to the neigh-
bourhood of Pattan, where he joined Muhammad Husain Mirzd
and Sh&h Mirz&, and informed them of his escape, and of the
siege of Surat. After consultation it was resolved that Ibr&him
Husain Mirz& should go into Hindust&n and create disturbances,
while the other two Mirz&s^ along with Sher Kh&n Ful&di, laid
siege to Pattan : their expectation being that the Emperor, on
receiving intelligence of these proceedings, would abandon the
siege of Surat, and fall back upon Ahmad&b&d, to repress these
1 He was tried and found guilty. — Akbar-ndmay yol. iii. p. 5.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
352 • NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
two outbreaks.^ Having indaced Sher Eh&n Ful&di to join
them, they invested Pattan. Saiyid Ahmad Eh&n B&rha (the
governor) put the fort in order, and shut himself up. He sent
an account of the investment to the Emperor, who, on hearing it,
issued orders that Eutbu-d din Muhammad Kh&n and * * * all
the jdgirddrs of Malwa, Br&isin, and Ghanderi, and all the other
nobles and adherents of the Imperial throne, such as * * *,
should assemble under the command of 'Azam Kh&n to repress
this rebellious attempt.
The nobles accordingly joined 'Azam Eh&n and marched to
Pattan. When they were five kos distant from Pattan, Muham-
mad Husain Mirz4 and Sher Eh&n Fuladi came forward to
meet them.^ The Mirz&s fell upon the advance and defeated it.
They then attacked the right, which was under Kutbu-d din
Muhammad Kh&n, and defeated it also. Sh&h Muhammad
Atka received a wound and fled. These two divisions being
broken, fled towards Ahmad&b&d, Kutbu-d dln'^s camp was
plundered, and Shaikh Muhammad Bukhari ^ was killed. When
'Azam Kh&n saw the defeat of liis right and left, and the fall of
Muhammad Bukh&ri, he resolved to make a bold attempt to
retrieve matters, and to dash into the fight. But Bidigh Eh&n,
who was himself a man of war, held his bridle, and would not
let him go. When the enemy'^s men dispersed in search of
plunder, and there remained but few in array, 'Azam Eh&u, with
Biddgh Kh&n, formed his ranks and fell upon the enemy^'s
centre. By God's help, victory declared in their favour, and
the foe was scattered on every side.* Sher Kh&n Ful&df, in a
forlorn and helpless state, went to Amin Kh&n, the ruler of
Jun&garh, and there found refuge. Muhammad Husain Mirz4
^ Abu-1 Fazrs view is different He says that Ibr&bfm, who was as able with
the sword as he was wanting in sense, quarrelled with his brothers, and left them
with the crude design of making an attempt on the capital. — Akhar^ndma.
' Ab6-1 Fazl and Faizf state that the rebels endeavoured to treat and gain time
for the arrival of expected reinforcements. — Akbar^ndma.
' He held the jdgir of Dfilaka.— Faizi.
* Ab<i-1 Fazl attributes the victory to Eutbu-d din, who rallied his broken fbiceS|
and led them again to the fight.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AEBABr. 353
fled to the Dekhin. This victory was won on the 18th Bama-
z&n, 980.
^Azam Ehin, after setting things in order at Pattan, left
Saiyid Ahmad 'Kh&n B&rha in command as before, and went to
the Emperor, whom he joined under the fort of Surat, on the
20th Shaww&l, and reported the devotion and bravery of the
amirs and all the troops. On his way back, he sent Kutbu-d
din Muhammad Eh&n and some other amirs to Ma'mur^bad, in
order to chastise Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk^ and the defeated troops
who were scattered in the jungles and forts. Eutbu-d din drove
Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk and the other Habshis out of the jungles,
took possession of the forts, and left his own garrisons in them.
When the Emperor departed from Surat for Ahmadab&d,
Kutbu-d din Muhammad Eh&n, and the amirs who had taken
part in his campaign, joined him on the road at the town of
Mahmud&b&d.
Eighteenth Tear of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Wednesday,
5th Zi-1 ka'da, 980 (11th March, 1573). The Emperor arrived
at Ahmad&b&d on the last day of Zi-I kaMa, and there he
entrusted the government of Gujar&t to Eh&n-i ''azam (Mirza
Koka).* On the 10th Zi-l hijja, the ^Td-ziiha, he commenced
his journey to the capital. On the 18th Zi-1 hijja, at the town
of Haibatpur, one of the dependencies of Pattan, he gave fine
robes and horses to *Azam Khin and the other amlrs^ and dis-
missed them to their y(f^ir«. At the same place, Muzaffar Kh&n
(late King of Gujar&t) received the Imperial bounty. The
sarkdrs of S&rangpdr and Ujjain in Malwa were taken from the
B4ni and granted to him, with fifty lacs of tankas xnjdgir? He
1 He had escaped from pruon at Ahmadnagar.— Badatini, vol. ii. p. 149.
* Pattan was g^ven to Mir Muhammad Kh&n-i kal&n ; Broach to Eutbu-d din
Muhammad; andDtllaka and Danddka to Saiyid H&mid Bukh&ri.— ^^a>*-n<//^ia,
Tol. iiL p. 6, and MS.
> Bad&dn£ (toI. ii. p. 149) says, " Two and a half kror$ mjdgir, S&rangpdr, Ujjain,
and the whole of M&lwa."
•vol.. V. 23
Digitized by VjOOQIC
354 NIZAMTJ-D DrN AHMAD.
was then sent to his jdglr. The Emperor continned his
journey by J&lor towards Fathpdr. At one stage from Ajmir,
he received a communication from Sa'id Eh&n5 the governor of
Mu1t4n, to inform him of the death of Ibr&him Hnsain Mirz&.
When Ibr&him Husain Mirz& hurried off from Gujar&t, he
proceeded to the town of Mirtha.^ At eleven Jtos from that
place, he plundered a caravan which was on its way from Gujar&t
to Agra, Upon reaching Niger, Farrukh Kh&n, son of Khan-i
kaldu, who governed there on behalf of his lather, withdrew
into the fort,' and the Mirz&, after plundering the houses of the
poor people in the environs of the city, went on to N&mauL
B&i B&m and B&i Singh, whom the Emperor had left at iToudh-
pur with about 1000 horse to keep open the communications
when he marched into Gujar&t, gathered their men and pursued
the Mirz&. On reaching N&gor, they joined Farrukh Kh&n,
and continuing the pursuit, they came up with the Mirz& one
evening at the village of KathoH,' twenty koa from N&gor, but
he took the alarm, and managed to make his escape.
On the 2nd Bamaz&n, 980, the troops halted on the banks of
a great tank, when the Mirz&, who was only a little in advance,
turned back and attacked the troops which were in pursuit of
him. The troops held their ground and defended themselves.
Three times the Mirz&, forming his men in two divisions, at-
tacked them on two sides, and showered arrows upon them.
Finding he could make no impression, he again fled. One
division got separated in the darkness, and the men were scat-
tered in the neighbouring villages, where they were taken
prisoners, and many of them were put to death. Nearly 200
fell alive into the hands of Farrukh Kli&n and the amirs of
Joudhpdr.
^ He had with him hiB yoangest brother, Mas'Ad Hwain Hin&.— .^liUar-flKfflM,
ToL tii. p. 8. Faizf Sirhindi.
* The Mirz4 besieged the fort, and was near npon taking iS^.^Akbtar-mdma^
vol. iii. p. 8. Faizl Sirhindf.
* "Kahtoli/'— Bad&finl, toL ii p. 160. " KahntonL*'— -if **«r.iii<jiM, voL liL
p. 8. "KahtolL*'— Faiai.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEAT-I AKBABf. 355
The Miiz&y with about 300 men who accompanied him,
plundered the villages and places in their road, and crossing
the Jumna and Ganges, lie proceeded to the pargana of ''Azam-
pur, in the district of Sambal, which had been his jdgir while
he was loyal to the Emperor. He stayed there five or six days,
and then started for the Panj&b. He plundered Pinipat, Sonpat,
Kam&l, and other places on his route. Many plunderers and
adventurers joined him, and inflicted great wrongs upon the
people.
When he reached the Panj&b, Husain Euli Eh&n Turkom&n^
AmirU'l umard of the Panj&b, was engaged with the forces of
his province in besieging E&ngra, well known as Nagarkot. On
hearing of the Mirza's arrival, Husain Kuli Xh&n set off with
his brother Isma'il Eh&n ♦ ♦ ♦ and other amirs^ and by forced
marches came up with the MirzA near the town of Tulambha,
forty ko8 from Multdn. He was returning from hunting free
from apprehension and in disorder, when he was attacked. His
men were dispersed, and were unable to reach him. His brother
Mas'ud Husain Mirzd, who had come up before him, attacked
the troops of Husain Kull Kh&n, but was taken prisoner. Ibra-
him Husain Mirzd, being unable to do anything, made off.
Upon arriving near Mult&n, he wanted to pass the Gara, which
is the name of the river formed by the junction of the Biydh
and Satlej. But it was night, and he had no boats, so he rested
on the bank. A party of Jhils^ who are fishermen dwelling
about Multad, made an attack upon him in the night, and the
Mirzd received a wound in his throat from an arrow. Seeing
no other means of escape, he quickly changed his clothes, and
separating from his people, endeavoured to get away. But some
of the people of that country recognized him, took him prisoner,
and carried him to Sa'id Kh&n at Mult&n, and in the custody
of the Eh&n he died.^
On the 12th Muharram, 981, in the eighteenth year of the
^ He had receired a leyere ▼onnd, and died soon after his eaptore.— uiArtor*»kima.
vol. iii. p. 12. Bad&Onl, toL ii. p. 169.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
356 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
reign, the Emperor paid a visit to the tomb of Ehw&ja M u'lnu-d
din Ghishti^ and observed the usual ceremonies, and dispensed
his customary gifts. He remained there a week, and every
morning and evening paid a visit to the tomb, showing strict
attention to all the observances. From thence he started for the
capital, and on reaching Sang&nir, he left his camp and went on
express with a few attendants to Fathpur. In two nights and
one day he reached the town of Bachuna, twelve kos from Fathpur.
To secure an auspicious time, he remained there three days, and
on the 2nd Safer he arrived at Fathpur.
March of Hmain Kuli Khan against NagarkoL
(There was a brahman named Brahma D4s, a bard (bdd^
farosh)y who was distinguished above all his compeers for his
skill in celebrating the achievements of great men, and he used
to make excellent Hindi verses. He was some years in the
service of the Emperor, and was admitted among the number
of his private attendants, when he received the title of Kab Br&i,
chief of poets) .^
When the Emperor's favour was alienated from Rdja Jai
Chandar, B&ja of Nagarkot, he issued orders for putting him in
confinement. The E&j&'s son, Badi Ghand, although a minor,
assumed the place of his father, and deeming him as dead, broke
out in revolt. The Emperor having given to Kab Bii the title
of Rajd Birbal,^ bestowed upon him the country .of Nagarkot.
hereupon fanndna were sent to Husain Kuli Eh&n, and the
amirs of the Panj&b commanding them to take Nagarkot from
Badi Ghand, and place it in the possession of B&j& Birbal.'
Birbal in Hindi signifies courageous and great, so his title
means " Brave and mighty Rajd.'*
^ This passage is another marginal addition apparently taken from Bad&fini.
2 In the MSS. the name is more frequently written '^BCrhar"; hut the more
familiar form has heen here adopted.
' Ah(i-l Fazl places this transaction in the seventeenth year of the reign.— .^Ijfc^or*
ndma, vol. ii p. 426.
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TABAKAT-I AKBARI. 357
When the E&j4 arrived at Lahore, Husain Kuli Khdn, ♦ ♦ •
and other nobles of the Panj&b, set out for Nagarkot. On
reaching Damhari, the holder of that place, whose name was
Choto, and who was a relative of Jai Ghand, relying on the
security of his fort which he had strengthened, kept himself in
private, and sent two vakils with his offerings. He also sent
a message excusing himself from attending in person, on the
groand of his fears and anxiety, but he undertook the duty of
keeping the roads clear. Husain KuU Khan presented the vakils
with robes and sent them back. Leaving a party of men at a
village situated near the opening of the road, he went onwards.
On arriving at the fort of Eutila, ho pitched his camp. This
fort is a very high one. It formerly belonged to B&j& R&m
Ghandar, of Gw&lior;^ but B&j& Dharm Gband and Bajd Jai
Ghand had obtained possession of it by force.
The of&cers left in charge of the fort by Bajd Jai Ghand
discharged muskets and arrows and stones against the troops
who had dispersed in search of plunder, and inflicted some
damage. Upon hearing of this, Husain Kuli Kh&n mounted
his horse \**ith the other amirs to reconnoitre the place. He
ascended a hill which is opposite to the fort, and commands it.
With great labour some guns were brought up the hill, and fire
was opened upon the fort. Its cracked masonry was shattered
by the balls. A large number of men stood under the walls, and
great loss was suffered. As evening approached, he returned to
the camp^ leaving a force in charge of that position. During
the night, the Rdjputs who were in the fortress, and were terri-
fied by the cannonade, made their escape. In the morning
Husain Kuli Kh&n, beating his drams, marched into the fort of
Kutila, which he delivered over to the B&j& of Gwalior, to whose
ancestors it had formerly belonged ; but he left a garrison of his
own there.
Continuing his march, he came to a thickly wooded country^
throua:h which it was diflScult even for an ant or a snake to
I The Gwalior in the hills. See Vol. lY. p. 494.
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358 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
creep ; so a party of men \^as set to cut a road through the jungle.
On the 1st Bajab, 990, he encamped by a field of maize near
Nagarkot. The fortress (hisdr) of Bhfin, which is an idol temple
of Mskhimki, and in which none but her servants dwelt, was
taken by the valour and resolution of the assailants at the first
assault. A party of Rdjputs, who had resolved to die, fought
most desperately till they were all cut down. A number of
Brahmans, who for many years had served the temple, never
gave one thought to flight, and were killed. Nearly 200 black
cows belonging to the Hindus, during the struggle, had crowded
together for shelter in the temple. Some savage Turks, while
the arrows and bullets were falling like rain^ killed these cows
one by one. They then took off their boots and filled them with
the blood, and cast it upon the roof and walls of the temple.
The outer fortifications having fallen, the buildings were
destroyed and levelled to make a camping ground. After this
the fort was invested. Sdbdts were formed, and a mound com-
manding the fort (sar-kob) was raised. Some large guns were
also placed upon a neighbouring hill, and were fired several times
a day upon the fort and the residence of the B&j4. One day the
commander of the artillery fired a large gun upon a place which
the B&jd had thought to be safe, and in which he was sitting at
meat. The ball struck the walls, and killed nearly eighty
people who were within the building. Among them was Bhuj
deo, son of B&j& Takhat Mai.
In the beginning of Shaww&l, letters came from Lahore with
the intelligence that Ibr&him Husain Mirz& had crossed the
Satlada (Satlej), and was marching apon Dip&lpiir. Husain
£uli Kh&n held a secret council with the amirs about the course
necessary to be pursued. The army was suffering great hard-
ships, and the dogs in the fortress were anxious for peace, so
Husain Euli Khdn felt constrained to accede.^ The infidels
^ Husain Euli required each of the amirs to give him a written opinion, signed
and sealed, in favour of granting a capitulation. AbO-1 Faal gires a somewhat
different version of the terms. 1. The K{g& was to send his daoghter to the
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAfiA£AT.I AEBABr. 359
undertook to pay a large tribute : five mans of gold, Akbarsh&hr
weight, and various kinds of stuffs for His Majesty. A mosque
was founded in front of the palace ofRijk Jai Ghandar, and after
the completion of the first arch a pulpit was raised, and H4fiz
Muhammad B&kir read the khutba in the name of the Emperor
on Friday, in the middle of Shawwal, 980. As he repeated the
titles of the Emperor, gold was showered upon his head. When
peace was concluded, the khutba read, and the coins stamped
with the Emperor's name, Husain Kuli Kh&n marched
away.
He then proceeded against Ibrdhim Husain Mirz&. At the
town of Jamdri he paid a visit to the holy Khw&ja 'Abdu-sh
shahid, who presented him with his garment, and sent his
blessings with him. When he reached Tulambha, he achieved
the victory, which has already been described. Upon His
Majesty arriving at Fathpur after his campaign in Gujar&t,
Husain Kuli Kh&n took Mas'ud Husain Mirza with him, and
went to wait upon the Emperor. The other prisoners, nearly
300 in number, were presented to the eyes of the Emperor with
cow-hides placed on their necks in a strange fashion.^ The
Gjea of Mas'dd Husain Mirz& were sewed up, but the Emperor
in his kindness ordered them to be opened. Several of the
prisoners were liberated, but some, who had taken a leading part
among the rebels, were kept in custody. On the same day Sa^id
Kh&n arrived, bringing with him as an offering the head of
Ibr&him Husain Mirzd, and he received distinguished marks
of favour.
When the Emperor returned from Gujardt, there remained
Emperor's harem. 2. To pay a proper tribute. 3. To give his children and some
relations as hostages for the surrender of the fort, if the Emperor refused to ratify
the peace. 4. To compensate R&j& Birbal for the loss of his jagir, — Akbar-ndma,
yol. iii..p. 10. Faizi Sirhindi incorporates the Tersions of the Tabakdt and Akbar^
ndma.
^ " Ckarmhde gdo dar gald anddkhtah,** Such are the words in the text and in
Faizf. Chann-i gdo means a thong or lash, the American <* cowhide " ; but Ab6-1
Fazl makes the matter clear. He says, ^ The prisoners were brought in cow-skins,
firom which the horns had not been taken away." — Akbar^ndmay toI. ill. p. 14.
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360 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
no resistance in that country, all the forts were in the hands of
his servants, and such of his troops as had not served on the
campaign were sent to strengthen 'Azam Kh&n. Bat he had
hardly been six months in his capital, when news of fresh out-
breaks came in time after time, and 'Azam Eh&n himself wrote
for reinforcements.
UvenU ithich occurred in Gujardi.
When the Emperor had settled the affairs of Gujar&t, mid
had returned to his capital, the disaffected and rebellious men,
who had crept into comers and hidden themselves in dread of
the royal forces, once more raised their heads. Having assem*
bled round Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk,^ they got possession of Ahmad-
nagar and the surrounding territory.
Muhammad Husain Mirai left the Dekhin^ with the intention
of attempting the recapture of Surat. Eallj Khan, who was
jdgirddr of the fort, made it secure, and prepared for a siege ; so
Husain Mirza gave up the project, and made a rapid march upon
Kamb&y.3 Hasan Kh&n Karkar£h, the shikkddr, being unable to
make any resistance, fled to Ahmad&b&d.^
Eh&n-i ^azam sent Naurang Kh&n and Saiyid Ahmad Bukh&ri
against the Mirza, while he . himself marched to Ahmadnagar
and f dar against Ikhtiy&m-l Malk. When Naurang Eh&n and
Saiyid Bukh&ri approached Eamb&y, Muhammad Husain Mirz&
came out to meet him. Sharp fighting went on for several days,
and Saiyid Jal&l, son of Saiyid Bah&u-d din Bukh&ri, was
killed. At length the Mirz& was worsted, and fled to join
Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk. ^Azam Xh&n, who had marched against
Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk, took a position near Ahmadnagar. He
several times attacked him, and fighting went on for several days
between Ahmadnagar and fdar with no decisive result.
^ He was in the neighbourhood of fdar, and was saj^rted by R&t Kar&in, tlM
mminddr of that plaoe. — Ahbar^ndnu^ vol. iiL p. 13,
> The ndghhonrhood of Danlat&b&d.— J&. p. 14.
^ He got possession of Broach on his way. — Jh, p. IS.
* Ah6-1 Fazl impntes negligenoe to Hasan Kh&n.~J3. p. 13.
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TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 361
Intelligence now came that the sons of Sher Eh&n Ful&dl, the
son of Jajh&r Eh&n, and Mirz& Muhammad Husain had joined
Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk, and had formed the plan of making a rapid
march by a different road to Ahmad&b&d. On being informed of
this, Eh&n-i 'azam marched for that city, and when he reached
it he sent a messenger to summon Eutbu-d din Muhammad
Kh&n from Broach, who accordingly marched and joined Khin-i
'azam at Ahmad&b&d. Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk and Muhammad
Husain Mirz&, and the other insurgents, got together a force
of 20,000 men — Mughals, Gujar&tis, Habshfs, Afghans, and
R&jputs — around Ahmad&b&d. The B&ja of tdar also kept up
a connexion with them.
Eh&n-i 'azam and Kutbu-d din, being unable to depend upon
some of their men, shut themselves up in the town, but sallied
out every day and fought under the walls. Onct day F&zil Kh&n^
son of Eh&n-i kal&n, went out and made a bold attack upon the
enemy, and kilTed several men ; but he was slain by a thrust from
a spear. Kh&n-i 'azam daily sent off despatches to the Emperor,
calling for assistance. The Emperor therefore resolved once
more to raise his banner in Gujar&t, to clear the country of the
rebels, and to uproot their families.
The Emperor summoned his clerks and officials, and gave
them directions to provide for the outfit of an army. The
former campaign had lasted a year, and the men through the
length of the march were without accoutrements. After re-
turning they had not had sufficient time to get money from
their jdgira to replace their necessaries. His Majesty therefore
issued money from the public treasury to the soldiers, and made
liberal grants for procuring the materials of war. He sent
Shuj&'^at Kh&n^ on in advance with his camp equipage, and he
sent with it his horses under the charge of Khw&ja Aki Xh&n.
He personally enjoined the diwdni officers to use the greatest
despatch in outfitting the army. To expedite matters he on the
^ R&J& Bba£^6n Das and B&i Singh were sent with him. — AHar^ndma^ Tol. iii.
p. 18.
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362 KIZiCMXT.D DTN AHMAD.
same day sent the men of his adyanced guard oat of the city to
join his camp equipage. He frequently said that although he
was exerting himself in the organization and despatch of the
army, no one would be ready sooner than himself to take his
part in its work.
When several amirs with their troops had been set in motion
for Gujar&t, he bestowed the title of Kh&n-jah&n upon Husain
Kuli Kh&n, who had rendered good service, and he increased
his jdgira and allowances. He confirmed to him the government
of Lahore and the sarkdr of the Panjab, and then dismissed hioi
to his duty. Each person who sought for an increase of dignity,
or for an increase of his allowances, met with a favourable
hearing. B&j& Todar Mai was ordered to join Kh4n-jahdn
Husain Kuli Kh&n, and to give him and the amirs of the Panjab
the benefit of his experience and advice in the management of
the province. All the amirs of the Panj&b took their leave with
Kh&n-jah&n, excepting Mirzd Tusuf Kh&n. The Mirzi and
Muhammad Zam&n, who exhibited great intelligence, were to
accompany the Emperor. Sa'id Kh&n, the ruler of Multan,
was sent to his Jdgir, taking with him his brother Makhsus
Kh&n, who had been promoted.
In the early morning of Sunday^ 24th Babi'u-1 akhir, 981, the
Emperor, with his companions and attendants, mounted swift
she-camels/ and took their departure. On that day he rode to
the town of Toda^ without drawing rein. There he ate what
he could get, and continued his journey. On the morning of
Monday, he took a short rest at Hans-mah&l, but quickly
resumed his journey. One watch of the night of Tuesday had
passed, when he reached the village of Mu'iz&b&d.' He was
^ Ahd'l Fazl (vol. iii. p. 18) agrees. The words used are jummdz* and naka ;
and the annotator of the Ahbar-ndma gives as an explanation the Hindi 9dtulnL
According to Bad&dnl (vol. ii. p. 165), the animals were btdihtitf or two-humped
camels. Faizf uses both termSfjumnubsa and bukktl.
' About BOTenty miles W. by 8. from Agra. *< He proceeded by way of Bas&war
and Toda, and accomplished 100 ko9 in two days. On the 26th he arriTed at Ajmir.*'
— Bad&^ni, vol. ii. p. 165.
3 Thirty miles S.W. from Jaipur.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKIT.I AEBABr. 863
now fatigued,^ and several of his attendants had dropped behind,
80 he stayed a few hours to take rest. After his attendants had
come up, he mounted a fast-going cart,* and travelled all night.
On Tuesday he reached the tomb of Khw&ja Mu'inu-d din
Ghishti (at Ajmir),' where he went through the usual observ-
ances, and bestowed his gifts upon the poor. He rested for a
while in the palace, which he had built for his own use, but
towards the end of the day he mounted his horae, and continued
his journey. Among his attendants when he started were Mirz&
Khan, son of Kh&n-kh&n&n Bair&m^ JissS Kh&n Koka, Zain
Kh&u Koka, and ♦ ♦ ♦ . The night was bright moonlight. In
the morning they joined Sh&h Kuli Kh&n Mahram, and Mu-
hammad Kuli Kh&n T&ghbdniy who had been sent on in advance
from Fathpdr. The intelligencers now brought the information
of the royal army having marched. His Majesty alighted at
the town of P&H,^ which was near at hand, and then, having
chosen Khw&ja 'Abdu-lla, Xsaf Khdn Bakshi, and E&is&I Dar-
bari, he took them along with him. On the 2nd Jum&da-l
awwal^ 981, he reached the town of Disa, twenty kos from
Pattan, in Gujar&t, where the shikkdar ♦ ♦ came forth to meet
him. His Majesty now sent ^saf Khan to Muhammad Kh&n,
directing him to collect his forces, and join the party at the
town of B&lis&na, five koa from Pattan. In the middle of the
night His Majesty started from Disa for B&lis&ua, and turning
aside from Pattan, came in sight of B&lis&na^ in the morning,
and there halted. Here he was joined by Mir Muhammad
^ According to Faizf, his limbs had to be anoiated with oil, to assuage the effects
of the friction.
' Here the T, Alfi says they rode on swift female camels, bat Abd-1 FazI agrees
as to the carriages. — Akbar»ndma^ vol. iiL p. 19.
8 Distance 140 Xw.— Faizl. ** 228 miles."— Thornton.
* The ronte from Ajmir was by Mirtha, thirty miles to the N.W. Jit&ran forty-
fiye miles S.W. Thirty miles farther to Sojhat, and from thence twenty to P&li.
From thence to Bhagw&npdr. He now wished to take the shortest road by Sirohi ;
but as that route was dangerous, his attendants were in favour of J&lor. The guide
pretended to lose the way in the night, and they went to J&lor, and so on to
Pattanw&l.->^A;^ar-Mcfma, rol. iii. p. 20. Faizi.
0 About five miles south-east of Pattan,
Digitized by VjOOQIC
864 NIZiCMU.D DfN AHMAD.
Kh&n with bis army and all his amirs and attendants, such as
* * * and a party of the principal Bajpdts, snch as Khang&r, the
nephew of E&ja Bhagw&n D&s, who had previously marched
from Fathpur to support Kh&n-i ^azam, but whom caution had
restrained from advancing beyond Pattan.
An order was now issued for all the troops to appear fiilly
armed and accoutred. The amtra accordingly brought out their
men, and the Emperor reviewed them. Although he had fuU
trust and hope of heavenly assistance, he neglected no material
means of success. He gave the command of the centre, which
is the place of the Sult&n, to M irzd Kh&n, son of (the late)
Kh&n-kh&n&n Bair&m Eh&n, a young man of great parts and
promise. He also appointed Saiyid Muhammad Eh&n B&rha,
a man of great bravery, and Shuj&'at Kh&n and S&dik Kh&n
to the centre. The command of the right was given to Mir
Muhammad Eh&n-i kal&n, and that of the left to Wazir Kh&n.
The advance, composed of a number of brave fellows, was placed
under the command of Muhammad KuU Ehdn and Tarkh&n
Diw&na. His Majesty kept under his own immediate direction
100^ horsemen, men who had been picked out from a thousand
thousand — a reserve intended to support any division which
might be hard pressed. Strict orders were issued that no man
was to stray from his place.
Although the horsemen under his colours were only 3000 in
number, and the enemy had more than 20,000, he put his trust
in God, and in the latter part of the day marched from B&lis&na
towards Ahmad&b&d. A messenger was sent to apprise E[h&u-i
'azam of his approach. He marched all night, and on Tuesday,
3rd Jum&da-l awwal, he reached Kari, a town twenty kos from
Ahmad&b&d. The scouts now brought in the intelligence that
a large force of the enemy had come out of the fort to give
battle.* Orders were accordingly given to attack them, and
^ This is the number given by Abti-l Fasl, Bad&dnl (yoI. ii. p. 166), and Firiihta;
but one of our MSS. has ** 500."
' Under the command of B0U7&, an officer ter?ing under Sber Eh&n Fnl&dL —
AMhar^ndmOf yoL iii. p. 23.
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TABAKAT-I AKBABX. 365
drive them from the road, but not to incur any embarrassment
by attacking the fort. This was accomplished in the twinkling
of an eye, and those of the enemy who escaped the sword,
threw themselves into the fort. Leaving the fort untouched, in
obedience to orders, the army marched &ye kos from Kari, where
it rested till dawn.
As soon as it was light, the bakhahis drew up the forces, and
marched on without drawing rein to a place about three kos
from Ahmad&b&d. Orders were given for every man to arm
himself, and the royal armoury was opened, so that every man
who had lost or damaged a weapon might choose one to suit
him. Asaf Khin was sent to Eh&u-i 'azam, to inform him of the
proximity of the Emperor, and directing him to e£fect a junction.
Thus, in nine days, the Emperor marched from Fathpiir to the
outskirts of Ahmad&b&d, a feat which it is difficult for the pen
to describe.
It was now discovered that the enemy, drunk with wine,^ were
asleep on the bed of heedlessness, quite unaware of the approach
of the royal army. The feeling ran through the royal ranks,
that it was unmanly to fall upon an enemy unawares, and that
they would wait till he was roused.* When the blast of the
trumpets was heard, the enemy, in amaze and alarm, rushed to
their horses.^ Muhammad Husain Mirzd advanced with two or
three horsemen to the bank of the river to ascertain the truth,
and it so happened that Subh&n Kuli Turk had also gone down
to the river with two or three men from our side. Muhammad
Husain Mirz4 called out to Subh&n Kuli, inquiring whose army
it was, and he was answered that it was the Emperor, who had
marched from Fathpur to punish traitors. The Mirzd replied,
^*My spies have informed me, that fourteen days ago the
Emperor was at Fathpur ; and if this is the Imperial army,
^ This is probably figoratiye. Bad&dnl (vol. ii. p. 166) employs a more common
simile, ** the sleep of neglect."
> Tlie battle was fonght on the 6th Jam&da.l AWwah—Akbar-ndma, yoI. iii. p. 26.
' Some thought a reinforcement had arrived for themseWes, and others that it waa
a force come from Pattan to'support Kh&n-i kBlkn^—JMar'ttdma, yoI. iii. p. 26.
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366 NIZXMU-D DfN AHMAD.
where are the royal elephants which always accompany it?*"
Subhdn "^Ali said, " How could elephants have travelled with
us 400 koB in nine days?^"* Muhammad Husain Mirz4 returned
amazed and troubled to his army, and drawing out his forces,
he prepared for battle. He directed Ikhtiy&r Kh&n to take
5000 horse, and prevent Eh&n-i 'az&m from sallying out of
the city.
When the time for delay drew to an end, the Emperor directed
the advance to cross the river, and that Wazir Kh&n also should
cross with the left. This being done, he himself crossed over at
the head of his chosen men. Some little confusion occurred in
the passage, but the troops all got over together, and advanced
a short distance on the other side, when a strong force of the
enemy came in view. Muhammad Husain Mirz&, with 1500
Mughals,^ all devoted men of his own, came up and fell upon
the advanced force under Muhammad Kuli Kh&n and Tarkh&n
Diw&na. Simultaneously the Habshis and Afgh&ns attacked
Wazir Kh&n, and then the fight grew close and warm.
The Emperor perceived some signs of weakness and distress
in the advanced force, so he gave the word, and charged the
enemy like a fierce tiger. Another body of the royal forces
came up and took them in flank. Saif Kh&n Koka made a rash
charge and was killed. Muhammad Husain Mirz& and Sh&h
Mirz& struggled manfully, but ill-luck attended them, so they
turned and fled. The royal troops advanced and cut off some.
His Majesty with several of his men drew up and stood &8t.
Muhammad Husain Mirz& had received a wound, and in his
haste to make his escape, he put his horse at a thorn hedge, but
the animal fell. One of the royal troops, a Turk named Gad&
'AH, who pursued him, threw himself from his horse and made
him prisoner.
Wazir Kh&n on the left fought well and bravely, but the
Habshi and Gujar&ti troops made charge after charge, until they
became acquainted with the defeat of Muhammad Husain Mirz&
1 The nsme is generaUy spelt " Mnghdl'' in this work.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AKBAUr. 867
and Sh&h Mirad. Then tbej also turned their backs. Mir
M ahammad Kh&n on the right drove back the sons of Sher
Kh&n Fulddi, and put many of their men to the sword. Victory
now declared itself on every side, and His Majesty returned
triumphant to his couch, which was placed at the edge of the
battle-field, and there he o£fered up his thanks for the victory
vouchsafed.
Gbd& 'All Badakhshi and a servant of Kh&n-i kal&n now
brought in the wounded Muhammad Husain Mirzd a prisoner,
each laying claim to the honour of capturing him. R&j4 Birbal
asked him who made him prisoner, and he replied, " Ingratitude
to His Majesty ; " and he spoke the truth. His Majesty spoke
a few kind words to him, and gave him into the custody of R&i
Singh. Among the prisoners taken was a man named Mard
Azm&i Shah, who declared himself the Eoka of Mirz4 Ibr&him
Husain. His Majesty struck him to the earth with a spear,
and the attendants cut him to pieces with their swords. It was
afterwards found out that he had killed in the battle of Sarndl,
Bhupat, brother of R&jd Bhagwdn D&s.*
An hour after the victory was won, another large division of
the enemy* made its appearance, and the vedettes brought the
information that it was Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk Gujarati. He had
been charged with the duty of closing the road against 'Azam
Eh&n, but when he heard of the defeat of the Mirz&s, he left
the city roads and came out Into the field. His Majesty ordered
a force to advance and assail him with arrows. When he came
in sight, some fierce horsemen charged and overthrew the troop
which preceded him. Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk in his fright cast a look
upon the hill whereon the royal standard was planted, and he
(and his men) ran off on both sides of it in such disgraceful
panic that the royal troops pulled the arrows out of the quivers
of the fugitives, and used them against them. A Turkom&n
1 According to Abd-l Fazl, it was ibe knowledge of this fiact which indaced the
Emperor to kill him.'' — Akbar-n&ma, yoI. iii. p. 36.
' '' More than 5000 in number." — Akbar-ndma^ vol. iii. p. 37 ; Bad&t^ni, yol. ii.
p. 168.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
368 NIZXMU-D DrN AHMAD.
named Suhrdb Beg now recognized Ikhtiy4ru-1 Mulk, and pur-
sued him. Coming to a thorn hedge, the fugitive endeavoured to
make his horse leap over, but the animal threw him. Suhr&b
Beg dismounted and took him prisoner. Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk said,
^^ You look like a Turkom&n, and the Turkom&ns are followers
of 'AH. I belong to the Saiyids of Bokhara, do not killme."
Suhr&b Beg replied, " I recognized you and pursued you. You
are Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk." Thus having said he cut off his head
and returned to mount his horse, but some one had taken it,
so he wrapped the head in the skirt of his garment and walked
back. At the time that Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk advanced towards
the hill on which the Emperor was standing, the B&jputs of
R&i Singh, who had charge of Muhammad Husain Mirzi, cast
the Mirzd off an elephant to the ground, and despatched him
with a spear.
After the victory, "^Azam Kh&n and the other officers who had
been besieged in the city came out to the Emperor, who be-
stowed upon the Kh&n many marks of his approval. To every
one of the Kh&ns he gave promotion or other distinctions, and
he had hardly finished with them, when Suhr&b Beg Turkom&n
came up and threw down the head of Ikhtiy&ru-l Mulk. When
the Emperor saw it, he praised him and liberally rewarded him ;
and then he ordered that a pyramid should be raised of the heads
of the rebels who had fallen in the battle, and these were more
than 2000 in number. Afker this he proceeded into Ahmad&b&d,
and occupied the royal abode, which is in the citadel. The men
of the city of all ranks waited upon him with their offerings and
congratulations. He rested five days in the citadel, and then
he removed to the house of 'Itim&d E[h&n, in the middle of
the city.
His first act was to see that all those who had rendered good
service in this campaign, especially those who had distinguished
themselves in the battle, should receive their due reward in
advanced rank and increased allowances. Eloquent scribes were
employed to write despatches of the victory, and the heads of
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAET.
Muhammad Husain Mirzd and Ikhtiy&ni-l Mulk were sent to
be hung np over the gates of ^gra and Fathpur.
After attending to the wants of the poor people of Ahmad&b&d,
he sent Kutbu-d din Muhammad Eii&n and Naurang Kh&n to
Broach and Ch&mp&nfr, to uproot the power of Sh&h Mirz&.
B&J& Bhagwdn D&s, Sh&h Kuli Mahram, Lashkar Kh&n Mir-
bakhshi, and several others^ were sent to fdar, to ravage the
country which Band I/di Singh had abandoned. The govern-
ment of Fattan was again confided to Mir Muhammad Kh&n
(Kh&n-i Kalan). Wazir Kh&n was appointed to Dulaka and
Dandiika, and he was to support Eh&n-i 'azam.
When the Emperor had made all his arrangements, he re-
solved to return home, and on Sunday, 16th Jum&da-l awwal,
he left Ahmad&b6d for Mahmuddb&d, and rested in the lofty
and fine palace of Sult&n Mahmud of Gujar&t. Khw&ja
Ohiy&BU-d din 'AU Bakhshi, who had rendered good service in
this campaign, received the title of ^af Eh&n, and he was
appointed ditcdn and bakhshi of Gujar&t, so he remained behind
with Kh&n-i ^azam. The Emperor travelled by night from
Dulaka to Eari, and from Kari also by night to Sit&pur. Here
a despatch was received from B&j& Bhagw&n D&s, and Sh&h
Xuli Mahram, reporting the capture of the fort of Bamagar,^ and
a letter of thanks was returned. He made no other halt till
he reached Sirohi, where he gave S&dik Kh&n a commission
to chastise rebels and robbers. On Wednesday, 3rd Jum&da4
awwaly 981, he reached Ajmir, and immediately went to visit
the tomb of Ehw&ja Mu'inu-d din Ghishti, and made liberal
donations to the poor. Next day he departed, and marching
night and day, he reached the village of Puna, three koa from
S&ng&nir, in the j'dgir of B&m Das Kachhw&ha. Here B&m
"D&s had prepared an entertainment for His Majesty and all his
attendants.
At this station B&j& Todar Mai, who had been directed to
^ About thirty miles east of Pattan.
VOL. v. 24
Digitized by VjOOQIC
370 NIZAMXT-D DrN AHMAD.
fit out a thousand boats {kishtt) and ghrabs at Agra, had an
interview with His Majesty. The reyennes of Gujarit had not
been paid np satis&ctorilj, so the B&j& was sent to ascertain
and settle the assets, and draw up an account of them for the
royal exchequer. The Emperor started again at midnight, and
rode to Toda, which he reached on the morning of the 6th,
and, after resting for a while, be again mounted and reached
Bas4war in the middle of the night, where he was met by
Khw&ja-jah&n and Shah&bu-d din Ahmad Ehan, who had come
out of Fathpdr to meet him. At dawn he again started and
went to the town of Bajuna, where he remained till the following
day. He then ordered his attendants to march into Fathpur
with spears in their hands. He himself followed, riding upon
a gray horse, and holding a spear in his hand. Thus he reached
Fathpur on Saturday, 7th Jum4da-1 &khir, having been absent
forty-three days.
Events after the Emperor's Return to Fathpitr.
On the 25th of Jum&da-l dkhir, the ceremony of circumcising
the young princes was performed, amid great rejoicings and
congratulations. The time was now arrived for beginning the
education of Prince Salim, so on the 22nd Bajab His Majesty
appointed Maul&n& Mir Kal&n Harawi to be his tutor, and to
instruct him in the creed and the Kur&n.^
Muzaffar Kh&n, who had been formerly appointed to the
government of S&rangpur, in the territories of Ahmad&b&d, was
summoned to Court, and on the 4th Bajab he was appointed waskr
or prime minister of Hindust&n, and received the additional title
of Jumlatu-1 Mulki. The general management of the affiuis
of the country was committed to his hands.
The debts of Shaikh Muhammad Bukh&rf, who was killed at
the battle of Pattan, and of Saif Eh&n Koka, who fell in the
second campaign of Ahmad&b&d, were ordered to be paid out
of the public treasury. The total amounted to one lac of Akbar*
1 The translation of this and other unimportant panageg of this section is abridged.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAKf. 371
sli&lii rapees, equal to 2600 tumdna of 'Ir&k. Sach a fact has
not been recorded of any king in books of history.
B&J& Todar Mai, who had been sent to settle the reyenaes
of Gojar&t, having made the necessary arrangementSy now re«
turned, bringing the accounts of his settlement, and suitable
presents for His Majesty. He was highly applauded. After a
few days the Emperor gave him one of his own swords, and sent
him along with Lashkar Elh&n Mir-bakhshi to serve under
Kh^U'^kh&n&n Mu'nim Ehdn, and assist in the conquest of
Bengal.
Mir Muhsin Bizwi, who had been sent on a mission to the
rulers of the Dekhin, returned, bringing with him the presents
they had sent to His Majesty.
On the 16th Shaww&l the Emperor went to pay a visit to the
tomb of Khw&ja Mu'inu-d din at Ajmir, for although he had
visited it this year on his return from the second campaign in
Gujar&t, he had now determined upon an invasion of Bengal;
and as this campaign might last longer than a year, he might be
prevented from making his usual pilgrims^e \ so he determined
to proceed thither at once, and offer up his prayers for divine
help in his war against Bengal. He accordingly set out on the
16th Shaww&l, 981, aud remained till the 20th in the village
of D&ir.i • ♦ ♦ At this place Dil&war Kh&n, assisted by the
Emperor's orderlies (pasdwala), was directed to protect the
cultivated land in the vicinity of the camp ^ and besides that,
trustworthy men were appointed to careftiUy examine the land
afler the camp had passed, and were ordered to place the amount
of any damage done, against the government claim for revenue.
This practice became a rule in all his campaigns, and sometimes
even bags of money were given to these inspectors, so that they
might at once estimate and satisfy the claims of the raiyata and
farmers, and obviate any interfereuce with the revenue collec-
tions. Continuing his journey, and hunting as he proceeded, he
arrived at a spot seven koa from Ajmir, on the 12th Zi-1 kaMa.
^ *' Four ko$ from Fathpdr/'—Bad&tini, yol. ii. p. 171.
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372 NIZAIfU-D DfN AHMAD.
Next day he went on foot to pay his visit to the tomh, and from
thence he repaired to his palace in Ajmir. There he remained
twelve days, visiting the tomh every day, and enriching the poor
with his bounty.
Nineteenih year qf the Reign,
The beginning of this year corresponded with Thursday, 17th
ZU ka'da, 981 h. (11th March, 1674 a.d.)
After paying his visit to the tomb of the holy Khw&ja^ who
is the helper and protector of kings, the Emperor started on his
return from Ajmir on the 23rd Zi-1 ka*da. Hunting as he went
along, he arrived at Fathpdr on the 17th Zi-1 hijja.
Campaign against Patna and H^ipiir.
Sulaim&n Eir&ni, one of the amir% of Salim Eh&n A%h&n
[Salim Sh&h], and ruler of Bengal and Bih&r, who had always in
his letters acknowledged himself a vassal of the Imperial throne,
died while the Emperor was engaged in his Surat campiugn, in
the year 981 h. His eldest son B&yazid succeeded, but he was
murdered by the amirs^^ and the younger son D&ud was raised
to the throne. The Emperor was informed that D&dd had
stepped out of his proper sphere, had assumed the title of king,
and through his morose temper had destroyed the fort of Fatna^
which Kh&n-zam&n built when he was ruler of Jaunpur. A
farmdn was immediately sent to Elh&n-khdn&n, directing him to
chastise D&ud, and to conquer the country of Bihdr.
At that time D&ud was at H&jipiir, and his chief noble, Lodi,
who was in open hostility to him, was in the fort of Bohtis, and
set up a claim to independence. Eh&n-kh&n&n Mu^'nim SSian
marched with the Imperial forces against Patna and H&jipur.
Lodi, knowing the destruction of the Afgh&ns to be certain,
1 «In consequence of his evil conduct.'* — Bad&uni, toI. ii. p. 178. According io
Abd-l Fazl, the nephew and son-in-law of B&yazfd, whose name was H6na6, took an
active part in his remoTal. He in his turn was killed by Lodi, and D&Qd was placed
upon the throne. — Akbar-ndma,
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TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 373
notwithstanding bis hostility towards D&ud, made a sort of
peace with Kh&n-kh&n&n. The old friendship and respect which
Kh&n-kh&n&n had for the late Sulaim&n Ejr&ni led him to agree
that, upon the payment of two lacs of rupees in money and one
lae in stuflPs as a tribute, the Imperial forces should be with-
drawn. Then having sent Jal&l Kh&n Krori, he entered into
a peace with Da6d,
But D&dd was a dissolute scamp, and knew nothing of the
business of governing. At the instigation of Katlu Kh&n, who
had for a long time held the country of Jagann&th and of
Sridhar BKndu Beng&li, and through his ovm want of judgment,
he seized Lodi his amiru-l umard^ and put him in confinement
under the charge of Sridhar Beng&li. When in prison, Lodi
sent for Katlu and Sridhar, and sent D&iid this message, " If
you consider my death to be for the wel&re of the country, put
your mind quickly at ease about it ; but you vnll be very sorry '
for it after I am dead. You have never given me any good
wishes or advice, but still I am willing to advise you. Act upon
my counsel, for it will be for your good. And this is my advice :
After I am killed, fight the Mughals without hesitation, that
you may gain the victory. If you do not do so, the Mughals will
attack you, and you will not be able to help yourself. Do not
be too sure about the peace with the Mughals, they are only
biding their time."
The power of D&ud and of all the Afgh&ns was on the wane :
it was God's will that they should &11, and that the power of
the Emperor should be established over the country of Bengal.
So D&dd resolved to put Lodi out of the way, and by so doing
to establish his authority to his own satisfaction. Katld Eh&n
and Sridhar Beng&li had a bitter animosity against Lodi, and
they thought that if he were removed, the offices of vakil and
wazir would fall to them, so they made the best of their oppor-
tunity. They represented themselves to D&ud as purely dis-
interested, but they repeatedly reminded him of those things
which made Lodi's death desirable. D&ud, in the pride and
Digitized by VjOOQIC
374 NIZAMXJ-D DfN AHMAD.
intoxication of youth, listened to the words of these sinister
counsellors. The doomed yictim was put to death, and D&ud
became the master of his elephants, his treasure, and his troops.
But he was puffed up with conceit and folly, and took no pre-
cautions for combating his enemies, and relying upon that
unsatis&ctory peace which Lodl had concluded, he banished
all care.
When the death of Lodi was reported to Kh&n-kh&n&n and
his circle, which was full of amirJi of renown, he at once set his
heart upon the conquest of Bengal and Lakhnauti, and marched
against Patna and H&jfp6r. In high spirits he arrived in the
vicinity of Patna. D&ud now deeply regretted the murder of
Lod(, who, by his wisdom, and judgment, and devotion, had kept
the affairs of Bengal in order. He marched towards Patna,
and was at first resolved upon battle ; but he afterwards recoiled
from trying an action, and resolved to take shelter in his fortifi-
cations. Eh&n-kh&n&n was delighted when he was informed of
this resolution, and he already foresaw the conquest of Patna
and H&jipiir. D&ud, without drawing a sword or shooting an
arrow, retired precipitately into the fort of Patna, and set about
repairing the works.
Kh&n-kh&n&n, with the concurrence of the anUn, proceeded
to invest Patna. Upon hearing this, the Emperor determined
to personally direct the operations against Patna and H&jipur.
After resting for a few days at Fathpur, he sent off his camp
and elephants by land under the command of Mirz& Tusuf Xh&n
Bizwi one of his chief amirs. He placed Agra in charge of
Shah&bu-d din Ahmad Kh&n Naishapuri, and embarked on
board a boat on Sunday the last day of Safar, 982 H. The
young princes went with him. The boats carried all his equip-
ments and establishments, armour, drums, treasure, carpets,
kitchen utensils, stud, etc., etc. Two large boats were specially
prepared for his own accommodation, in which he embarked with
his attendants. The boats required by the amirs for themselves
and their establishments were in the rear of the royal boats.
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TABAKiCT-I AKBABr. 376
and so they started. On arriving at the village of Batambh, one
of the dependencies of JCgn^ he stopped and sent a letter io
Elh&n-kh&n&n Mu'^nfm Kh&n, to give information of his approach.
On the 1st Babi'u-l awwal the expedition proceeded. Every
day he left the boat and went hunting on shore.^ Every day he
was joined by fresh parties of troops. [Punishment of a brahman
guilty of incest with his daughter."]
On the 23rd of the month the Emperor reached lUahab&s,
which is situated at the confluence of the Ganges and Jumna.
This is a great place of pilgrimage for the Hindus, and contains
some fine buildings. It is celebrated in all parts of the world
as a holy place of the Hindds, who resort thither from all parts.
On the 25th he reached Benares, from whence he sent on Sher
Beg Taw&chi in a boat to Elh&n-kh&n&n Mu'^nim Kh&n, to
apprise him of the Emperor's arrival at Benares. At that city
he remained three days taking rest. On the 28th he reached
the village of Kori, a dependency of Saiyidpdr,* at the confluence
of the Gumti' and Gttnges, and there anchored.^ Here he was
waited upon by Mirza Ydsuf Kh&n, who had brought down the
army by land. He now determined that until he received
accurate intelligence from Kh&n-kh&n&n, he and the young
prince and his wives would go and stay at Jaunpur.^ So he
left the army at this encampment, and went up the Gumti in
boats to Jaunpdr.
On the 2nd Bab('u-s s&ni he reached the village of Yahy&-
pdr, a dependency of Jaunpdr. Here a despatch arrived from
Kh&n-kh&n&n, urging him to march on with all speed. So on
the 3rd he sent on the young prince and ladies to Jaunpdr, and
^ ^ In the evening tliej cast anchor, and the Emperor engaged in diBCOBsiona upon
science and poetry/' etc. — Bad&Uai, yoL ii. p. 176.
' Bad&dni for Saiyidptir has Jauopdr, and is probably right
' Here oaUed in the MS. *<G(ida" and "GKbri " ; by fiad&dnf « Gddi," and by
Ab6-1 Fazl ♦« KtfdL"
* The expedition encountered three violent storms, and several boats sank.—
Akhar^ndma^ vol. iii, p. 64.
* The r. Alfl writes the name indifferently " Jaunpdr " and " J&nipdr."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
376 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
then departed on his campaign against Bengal.* On the 4th
the boats fell down the Gamti to the Ganges, and Mirz& Yusof
Eh&n, the commander of the army, waited on His Majesty.
It was now arranged that the army should keep within sight of
the royal flotilla. On the 6th it encamped in the plain of
Gh&z(pur, and the Emperor went hunting. ♦ ♦ ♦ On the 7th
he halted at Gangadfispur, and here he was met by the eunuch
'Itimdd Khdn, a distinguished noble, who had been rendering
good service in the siege of Patna, and who now made a full
report of all the occurrences to His Majesty, and urged him to
hasten forward. His Majesty thereupon directed Saiyid Mirak
Ispah&ni, one of his principal attendants, who was learned in
charms, to seek an augury in his books by sortilege. The
augury was favourable, and a few days proved its truth.
On Tuesday, the 8th Rabi'u-s s4ni, he encamped at the ferry
of Chaunsd, and here a despatch arrived from Eh&n-kh&n&n,
reporting that Ysa Eh&n Ni&zi, an Afgh&n renowned for his
courage, had made a sortie with elephants and a large force from
Patna, and had attacked the besiegers. 'fs& Kh&n was slain
by Lashkar Kh&n, one of the Emperor's men, and a great
number of Afgh&ns fell. This news was sent on to the princes.
On the following day Dil&war Eh&n was ordered to transport
the army over at the ferry of Ohaunsd, and on the 10th the army
encamped at the village of Domni, belonging to Bhojpur. Kasim
''All Khdn, was now sent to inform Eh&n-kh&n&n of the near
approach of the Emperor, and to inquire what he advised to be
done. The Eh&n advised the Emperor to advance as hitherto,
himself by boat and his army by land ; and he requested that
some horses might be sent to replace those that had been
rendered useless by the rains.' Horses and arms were accord-
^ " News aniyed on tbig day of the oonqnest of Bhakar.** This is in the text, bat
has been placed here as a note. BadiAni's yersion is, ** News arriyed of the deatii of
ScQt&n Mahmdd of Bhakar, and of Miihibb 'All Kh&n's obtaining possession of that
country."
» The weather continued very stormy ; heavy rains fell, and the waters were much
out. — Jkbar-ndma, yol. iii. p. 76.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEr. 377
ingly sent. Kh&n-kh&n&n and the other amira advanced two
ko8 from Patna to meet His Majesty^ who^ on the 16th Babi'u-s
8&ni, reached his destination, and took np his abode in the tents
of Eh&n-kh&n&n. Great rejoicings followed, and rich offerings
were made.
On the 17th Akbar called a conncil of war in the tents of
Kh&n-kh&n&n, when he observed that the siege had now lasted
a long time, that he was resolved upon reducing the place,
and upon crushing the defenders, so that they should be unable
to make any further resistance either in the city or in the
country. He thought that the best course to pursue was to first
reduce the fort of H&jipur,^ which rendered very material assist-
ance to the garrison of Patna, and that their operations must
be directed to that object. The Kh&ns greatly applauded this
scheme. At that same council Kh&n-'&lam was sent off with
three thousand men in boats, with the materials required for a
siege. B&J& Gajpati, the zaminddr of that country, who had
many armed adherents, was directed to support Kh&n-'&lam.
Next day, the 18th, Kh&n-'&lam crossed the river, embarked
immediately, and went to lay*siege to H&jipur, while the troops
marched by land.^ In order to see the field, His Majesty
mounted a batt-ery of Sh&ham Kh&n Jal&ir, which was upon
a hill on the bank of the Ganges, and from which H&jipur was
visible. As, however, he could get no certain information of
what was passing, in the evening he sent a party of men in three
boats toward H&jipur to gain intelligence. When the enemy
saw these boats approaching, they sent eighteen boats full of
fid^hting men against them. But the three Imperial boats pre-
vented them from advancing, and by hard fighting cut their
way through, and joined Eh&n-'&lam. Victory now declared in
favour of the Emperor.' Fath Kh&n B&rha, commander of
> ''A fort whioh stood opposite to Patna; the Gang^ about two hot in width,
flowing between them." — Akbar-tidma, toI. ili. p. 73.
' He went np the Ghindak. — Akbar^ndma, yoI. iii. p. 75.
* Faixi Sirhindi follows this aocoont ; but Abd-1 Fazl's Torsion is somewhat
different. See infrd.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
378 NIZXMU-I) DTK AHMAD.
H&jipdr, and many Afgh&ns, were Blain, and the place fell into
the hands of Kh&n-'&lam« The head of Fath £h&n B&rha
and the heads of other Afgh&ns were thrown into boats, and
sent to the Emperor. After offering his thanksgiving for this
victory, he sent the heads of Fath Eh&n and of the others to
D&dd, that he might see with his own eyes what had befiillen
his officers, and might be led to reflect upon his own position.
•* When D&ud's eyes fell npon these heads, he was plonged into
dismay, and set his mind upon flight.
On the same day, the 16th, the Emperor went out npon an
elephant to reconnoitre the fort and the environs of the city,
and he ascended the Panj-pah&ri^ which is opposite the fort.
This Panj-pah&ri, or '^ Five domes,'' is a place built in old times
by the infidels with burnt bricks in five stages. The Afgh&ns,
who were on the walls and bastions of the fortress, saw the
Emperor and his suite as he was making his survey, and in
their despair and recklessness they fired some guns at the Panj-
pah&ri, but they did no injury at all to any one.
When D&dd saw the Imperial forces swarming in the plain,
and when he was informed of the iall of Hijlpur, although he
had 20,000 horse, abundance of artillery, and many elephants,
he determined to fly, and at midnight of Sunday, the 21st
Rabi'u-s s&ni, he embarked in a boat and made his escape.
Sridhar the Bengali, who was Diud's great supporter, and to
whom he had given the title of B&j& Bikram&jit, placed his
valuables and treasure in a boat and followed him.
Gujar Kh&n Eir&ni, who was Daud's minister,^ brought the
elephants 'out, and fled by the rear of the city. On that dreadful
night, a foretaste of the day of judgment, the inhabitants were
in a state of bewilderment and despair. Some endeavoured to
escape by the river, but through the crowding and struggling
many of them were drowned. Others endeavoured to fly by
land, but were crushed under the feet of elephants and liorses
in the narrow lanes and streets. Some in their despair cast
^ His title was " Enknud daula."— Bad&Oni, toI. iL p. 181.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AKBABr. 379
themselves down from the walls, and others perished in the moat.
When Gujar Eh&n came to the Ponpun^ river, he passed his
elephants over the bridge; bat the fagitives in his rear so pressed
and crowded upon the bridge that it broke down, and nambera
were precipitated into the water. Those who came up afterwards
threw away their arms and clothes, and cast themselves naked
into the river.
Late at night, when the flight of D&dd was reported, the
Emperor gave thanks to heaven, and as soon as it was light
Kh&n-kh&n&n having assured himself of tBe fiict, the royal
ferces entered the city with great display. Fifty-six elephants,
which the enemy had been unable to carry off, were found in
the city and paraded before His Majesty. The date of the fall
of Eatna, which was indeed the conquest of Bengal, is found in
this line, ''Mulk-i Sulaimdn zi Dditd rqfl'' (983).
The Emperor remained in the city till four hours of the day
had passed, and having made a proclamation of amnesty to the
inhabitants, he left £h&n-kh&n&n in command of the army,
while he himself dashed off with a detachment in pursuit of
G6jar Kh&n and the elephants. When he reached the Punpun,
he swam over on horseback, and the amirs and soldiers followed
his example. Then he gave orders for every officer and man to
press on with all his might in the pursuit of the enemy, and he
himself spurred forward. The amira, driving Gujar Kh&n before
them, secured D&ud'*s elephants, and brought them to His
Majesty. On reaching the pargana of Dary&p6r,' twenty-six
ko8 ^ from Patna on the banks of the Ganges, they drew rein,
and it was found that nearly 400 elephants^ had been taken.
His Majesty halted at Daryfipdr, but ordered Shahb&z Kh&n
Mir-bakhshl and Majndn Kh&n K&ksh&l to continue the pursuit.
They went on to the river Balbhund, seven kos from Dary&pdr.
^ A rirer which nms from the south, and fallfl into the Ganges near Patna.
' Oo the right bank of the Ganges, sixty miles east from Patna.
> Abti-1 Fail makes it thirty ktn.-^Akbar-ndma, ToL iiL p. 78.
*. « Two hundred and sixty-fiTC."— /3.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
880 NIZAMU-D BfN AHMAD.
There they learned that Gdjar^ worn out and half dead, had
passed over the river, and that some of his men had been
lost in the water. Shahb&z Kh&n and Majnun Eh&n then
retomed.
On Monday, the 2l8t, Kh&n-kh&n&n, according to orders, came
by water to wait upon His Majesty, bringing with him the royal
boats and attendant establishments. The Emperor stayed at
Dary&pur six days. He appointed Eh&n-kh&n&n to the govern-
ment of Bengal, and left him an additional force of 20,000 horse.
He increased his military allowances twenty-five or thirty per
cent., he gave him all the boats which he had brooght down
from ^gra, and invested him with fall power and authority.
Then he raised the standard of return, and dismissed Kh&n-
kh&n&n and the other amirs. Next day he marched to the town
of Ghiy&spdr on the bank of the Ganges. There he rested
four days, employed in the pleasing occupation of viewing the
elephants captured from D&ud and his Afgh&ns. From thence
he determined to go on to Jaunpur rapidly. Leaving the com-
mand of the army as usual with Mirz& Yusuf Kh&n, he started
at midnight of the 2nd Jum&da-l awwal, 982, mounted upon an
elephant. In the morning he halted at an encampment of the
royal forces between Dary&pur and Ghiy&spur, where he wit-
nessed some elephant fights.
At this stage Muzafiar Kh&n,^ who was formerly a clerk, but
now an amir of reputation, was sent along with Farhat Ehan,
one of the late Emperor's slaves, and now enrolled in His
Majesty's service, to besiege the fortress of Rohtfis, a very lofty
and strong place. And he gave orders that after its capture
it should be placed under the command of Farhat Kh&n, and
that Muzaifar Eh&n should return to Oourt. On Friday, 3rd
Jum&da-l awwal, he proceeded to Patna, and spent a short time
1 Muzaffar Eb&n, who was appointed prime minister (see wprti), bad been
since removed from office, for reasons wbicb wUl appear in an Extract from tbe
Akbar-'ndma^ infrd, Abti-1 Fazl says he was sent on this campaign to Bohtfta in
disgrace. — Akbar'tidma, toI. iii. p. 81.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 381
in examining the buildings of D&ud.^ From thence he started
to make the best of his way, and on Saturday, the 4th, he
reached the village of Fathptlr Sahina, which is twenty-one ko8
distant, and on Monday, 6th Jum&da-l awwal, at mid-day, he
arrived at Jaunpur. Mirz& Yiisuf Kh&n arrived with the army
on the 7th. The Emperor remained at Jaunpdr thirty-three
days, devoting his time to making arrangements for the army
and the government of the country. He placed Jaunptir,
Benares, the fort of Ghun&r, and sundry other mahdh and par-
ganas directly under the royal exchequer, and he gave th6
management of them tor Mirz& Mirak Bizwi and Shaikh Ibr&him
Sikri. On the 9th Jum&da-s s&ni, 982, he departed from Jaun-
pur, and went to Kh&npur, where he stayed four days. Here
he was waited upon by K&zi Niz&m Badakhshi, who [being
graciomly received and appointed to office"] afterwards achieved
a high position among the nobles.
A despatch now arrived from Eh&n-kh&n&n, reporting the
capture of the fort of Garhi.* When D&ud fled from Patna, he
went to Garhi. Leaving some trusty men there, he proceeded
to the town of T&nda. He made such efforts to strengthen the
fort of Garhi that in his vain idea it was impregnable. Kh&n-
kh&n&n marched against T&nda, and arrived near Garhi.' As
soon as the eyes of the terrified Afgh&ns fell upon his army, they
fled and abandoned the fort, so that he obtained possession of
Garhi without striking a blow. This intelligence greatly pleased
the Emperor, and he sent letters of commendation to Kh&n-
kh&n&n and the other amirs. Continuing his journey, and hunting
as he went, he arrived, on the 8th Jum&da-s s&ni, at the town of
Iskandarpdr, where he received intelligence of the fall of T&nda.
After taking possession of the fort of Garhi, the Imperial
^ <* It is a cnrioiu &Gt that in this place there are thatched houses called chkappar-
handy which, although they are coTcred only with wood {chob posh)^ are worth 30^000
or 40,000 rupees each."— Bad&^ni, yoI. ii. p. 182.
2 SeeYol. lY . p. 367. Also Extract from Ak.^ndma^ infrdy respecting Garhi and T&nda.
3 He had previoosly made himself master of Surajghar, on the Ganges, ahout
eighty miles from Patna ; of Monglr, with the help of R&j& Sangr&m of Gorakhp(ir
and Ptiran Mai B£lj& of Kidhdr ; and of fih&galpiir.~.^^*-mi;mi, toL iii. p. 84.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
382 mzKMXJ'D DrN ahmad.
forces marched on towards Tanda, which is the capital of the
kingdom (of Bengal). Kh&n-kh&n&a's explorers at first reported
that D&ud intended to make a stand there, and bad made his
dispositions. Kh&n-kh&n&n thereupon snmmoned his amirs, and
took every precaution for the security of his army. Next day
he marshalled his forces, and advanced in great force against
T&nda. When D&ud's spies carried him the intelligence of
Kh&n-kh&n&n's advance, he and his associates thought of the
black night of Patna, and fled in dismay, abandoning the town.
Thus on the 4th Jum4da-s s&ni, the capital of T&nda was won
for the Emperor without fighting, and a proclamation of protec*
tion was issued to the people.
Again the Emperor was delighted with this good news. He
determined to go on to Dehli, and he arrived there on the 1st
Bajab. He made a pilgrimage to the tombs of the saints and
holy men ; he also visited the tomb of his father, and he dis-
pensed his bounty among the needy, and offered up prayers
suitable to his position. To give his escort rest he remained at
Dehli some days, and employed himself in hunting. In the
beginning of Sha*b&n he started for Ajmir, and hunted as he
went. At the town of Namaul he was waited upon by Elhan-
jah&n, who came from Lahore to see him. The Emperor was
much pleased to see the Kh&n, and gave him some princely
marks of his approval. A few days afterwards 'Az4m Kh&n
also came from Ahmad&b&d expressly to offer his congratula-
tions. In the beginning of Ramaz&n, the Emperor reached
Ajmir, and hastened immediately to pay his visit to the tomb.
Out of the spoils of Bengal he presented to the nakdra-khdna of
the Khw&ja a pair of drums which had belonged to D&ud. He
also dispensed the usual gifts.
It now came to his knowledge that Chandar Sen, son of M&l
Deo, was oppressing the raiyats in the neighbourhood of the forts
of Joudhpur and Siw&nah, and was creating disturbances.^ His
1 ThiB intelligence was brooght from Siw&nah by E&j& R&i Singh. — Jkh&r^
ndrna^ vol. iiL p. 87. Siw&nah Ib about sixty miles S.W. of Joudhplir.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEiCT-I AKBABr. 883
Majesty sent Tayib Eh&n, son of T&hir Kh&n Mlr-i fardghat
the goyemor of Dehli, and Subh&n EaU Tdrk, with a suitable
force, to chastise him. When they approached, the rebel with-
drew with his followers ^ into dense jungles and places hard of
access. But some of the fugitives were caught and put to the
■word, and the royal troops returned with considerable spoil. In
the middle of Bamaz&n the Emperor started on his return to
the capital, and on the same day Eh&n-i /azam departed for
Gujar&t. The Emperor arrived at Fathpdr on the last day of
Bamaz&n.
It had become manifest that much of the cultivable land of
Hindustan was lying uncultivated ; and to encourage cultivation,
some rule for dividing the profits of the first year between the
Government and the cultivator seemed to be required. After
carefiil consicLeration^ it was arranged that the various parganaa
should be examined, and that those which contained so much
land as being cultivated would yield a kror of tankas^ should be
divided off and given into the charge of an honest and intelligent
officer, who was to receive the name of krari. The clerks and
accountants of the Exchequer were to make arrangements with
these officers, and send them to their respective districts, where,
by vigilance and attention, in the course of three years the
uncultivated land might be brought into cultivation, and the
revenues recovered for Government. To carry out these views,
a number of the most honest and trustworthy servants of the
State were selected, such as * * and appointed to the office of
krari. The amirs also were called upon severally to appoint
kroris^ who were sent into the country upon their responsibility.
At this time Sh&h Euli Eh&n Mahram, Jal&l Eh&n Eorchf,
and some other amirsj were sent to effect the reduction of the
fort of Siw&nah, belonging to the son of Bif M&l Deo. The fort
was besieged for a long time, and Jal&l Eh&n Eorchi, one of the
officers of the Court, was killed there. After that Shahbaz Ehan
Eambd was sent there, and he took the place in a very short time.
» " by way of B&mpur." — Ak.'ndtna, B&mptir in Tonk, eeventy miles S. from Jaipdr.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
384 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
A statement wad now received from the ministers (wuknld)
of Sult&n Mahmdd of Bakar, reporting that Saltfin Mahmdd
was dead^ and that they had no confidence in Muhibb 'Ali Kh&n
and Muj&hid Khan. If, therefore, his Majesty would send one
of his officers, they woald render up the fort into his charge.
His Majesty accordingly sent Mir Kisu Bakdwal-begij who had
received the title of Kisu Kh&n.
In this year a great pestilence (wabd) and &mine occurred in
Gujar&t, and lasted for nearly six months. From the severity of
these calamities, the inhabitants, rich and poor, fled the country,
and were scattered abroad. For all this, grain rose to the price
of 120 tankaa per man,^ and horses and cows had to feed upon
the bark of trees.
Khw&ja Am!nu-d din Mahmdd Khwdja-jahdn^ who was toasir-i
mmtakill of the territories of Hindust&n, died at Lucknow.
Tiventieth year of the Beign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Monday, 29th
ZM ka'da, 982 h. (13th March. 1576).
Defeat of Ddud Khan hy Khdn^khdndn.
After the conquest of T&nda and the flight of D&ud to Orissa,
Kh&n-kh&nan devoted his attention to the settlement of the
aflfairs of the country. Then he sent B&j& Todar Mai with
some other amirs towards Orissa, in pursuit of D&ud. He ap-
pointed Majnun Kh&n K&ksh&l to the government of Ghora-
gh&t. When the Kh&n proceeded to Ghora-gh&t,^ Sulaim&n
Mangali, the jdgirddr of the place, and one of the bravest of
the Afgh&ns, collected a force to resist his taking possession.
Some sharp fighting followed, and Sulaim&n was killed, and the
wives and children of him and of other Afgh&ns were made
prisoners. Immense booty fell into the hands of the K&ksh&ls.
Majnun Kh&n married Sulaim&n^s daughter to his own son
> ** JaicdriroiQ to the price of 120 black tanhaa per man** — Bad&tSni, toI. ii. p. 186.
' Forty-eight miles S.E. of Din&jptir.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 885
Jabb&ri. He then went on to Ghord-gh&t, and after dividing
the whole of the country among the £&ksh&Is, he made a report
to Kh&n-kh&n&n.
£&j& Todar Mai, who had been sent in pursuit of D4tid, when
he reached Mad&ran,^ was informed by his scouts that D&ud was
engaged collecting men in Din-kas&ri, and that his forces were
daily increasing. Todar Mai stopped at Mad&ran, and wrote
a full report from thence to Elh&n-kh&n&ni On receiving it, the
Khiu sent Muhammad Kuli Kh&n Birl&s • * with reinforce-
ments for the R&jd. Upon their arrival, all the chie& concurred
in the expediency of marching to Gow&lp&ra, ten koH from Din-
kas&ri, with all speed. When D&ud heard this, he did not fly,
but stood his ground at Dharpur.'
The spies now brought in information that Junaid, son of
Daud's uncle, a man of high repute among the Afgh&ns for
bravery and resolution, who had formerly come into the service
of the Emperor, but fled from ^gra to Gujarat, and afterwards
came from Gujar&t to Bengal, was now at Din-kas&ri, seeking
to form a junction with D&ud. K&j& Todar Mai, with the
approval of the other amirs^ sent Abti-1 K&sim Namaki and Nazar
Bah&dur to attack Junaid. These men, making light of the
matter, neglected the precautions necessary in warfare, and were
defeated by Junaid, thus bringing disgrace upon themselves.
R&J& Todar Mai, on receiving the news, with the approval of
his amirs, marched against Junaid ; but before he could arrive,
Junaid had fled into the jungles. Todar Mai therefore stopped
at Midnapdr. Muhammad Kuli Xh&n Birl&s died here after a
few days' illness. He was an able man, and his loss was a great
cause of weakness in the Imperial forces.
, In concurrence with the remaining amirs, Il&j& Todar Mai
returned from Midnapur to Mad&ran. Here Kiy& Kh&n Gang,
* In the KtigU district between Bardwan and Midnap6r. See Bloclimann's
Ahk-i Akbari, Yol. i. p. 376.
» " A place lying between Bengal and Oriasa." — Akbar-ndma, yoI. iii. p. 99.
VOL. v. 26
Digitized by VjOOQIC
386 NIZAMIJ.D DTN AHMAD.
being offended with the other amirs^ without reason, went off
into the jungle. Todar Mai reported the fact to Eh&n-kh&n&n,
and remained for some days in Mad&ran. Hereupon Eh&n-
^-kii&n&n sent Sh&ham Eh&n Jal&ir and * * * to support B&j&
Todar Mai. When they joined the Il&j& at Bardwan, the B4ja
left them, and went out into the jungle after Eiy& Kh&n, and
having pacified him, brought him back with him. From Mad&-
ran they marched to Jitura. There they were informed that
D&ud, with his forces, had gone into the fort of Katak Ban&ras,'
and was engaged in preparations for war.
B&jd Todar Mai halted, and sent swift messengers to inform
Khfin-kh&n&n of the position of affairs. Ehan-kh&n&n then
left T&nda to march against D&ud, and he formed a junction
with B&j& Todar Mai. D&dd had organized his army and now
advanced to meet him. The Afgh&ns entrenched their camp.
On the 20th Zi-1 ka'da, 982,» the armies met.* After the
array was formed, the Afghins advanced rapidly and boldly to
the attack. Eh&n-kh&u&n ordered fire to open upon them from
the swivels {zarlhzan) and light guns {zambiirak)^ which were
mounted on ardbas in front of his line. The fire of the guns
drove back the elephants which were placed in front of the
Afgh&n attack, and the musketry mowed down the A%fa&ns
who were in the advance. Gujar Kh&n, with his division in
^ With Eh&n-kh&n&n in particular. — Akbar-ndma, yoI. iii p. 98.
' Attock and Cnttack, at the two extremities of the Empire, both have the word
Ban&ras (Benares) added to their names in the Tahakdt.
' This date shows that Abii-1 Fazl is right in placing the battle in the nineteenth
year of the reign. Several lines are occupied with the names of the atnira in com-
maud of the yarious divisions of the two armies.
* "at Bajhora."— Bad&fini, vol. ii. p. 194. The MSS. of the Akhar-ndma bare
" Takaroi." The name is not given in the MSS. of the Tabakdt^ nor in the Akbar^
ndma of Faizi Sirhindi. Mr. Blochmann finds the locality of the battle in the
Trigonometrical Map of Orissa, in two places called Mughnlm&ri (Mughal's fight),
and ** Tookaroe/' a village about seven miles southwards, halfway between Mughnl-
m&rl and Jalesar (Jellasore), and two miles from the left bank of the Soobanreeka
river, lat. 21** 63'. The battle extended over a large space. Bad&dni (voL ii.
p. 195) speaks of three or four koSf ue, about six miles." — See Ain-i Akbai% vol. i.
p. 875.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEF. 387
excellent order, now came up boldly, and drove back Kh&n-
kh&n&n's advanced force upon the Altamah} Kh&n-i ''filam, who
commanded the advance, held his ground, and was killed. The
AUamsh division was next defeated and driven back upon the
centre, which in its turn was in great difficulty. Kh&n-
kh&n&n did all in his power, but could not restrain his men. At
this time, Gujar Elh&n attacked and wounded Kh^-kh&n&n, and
as the latter had no sword, he returned Gujar Kh&n's cuts with
slashes of his whip. In this conjuncture Kh&n-kh&n&n^s horse
took fright ; and although his rider was anxious to stop him and
rally the fugitives, he could not restrain him. The Afgh&ns
pursued Kh&n-kh&n&n for half a kos^ when Kiy& Kh&n Gang
attacked the Afgh&ns, and showered arrows upon them. The
Afgh&ns were exhausted by their long ride, and could not move.
Then Xh&n-khan&n got his horse under control, and rallying
his men, led them back to the field. They discharged showers
of arrows, and by the guidance of fate, an arrow struck Gujar
Kh&n, and brought him down. When the Afghans saw their
leader fall, they turned their backs and fled ; but many of them
were cut down in their flight. II&J& Todar Mai, Lashkar Kh&n,
and others who were upon the right, now charged the left of the
enemy. Sh&ham Kh&n and others, who were on the left, also
attacked their opponents of the right, defeated them, and drove
them back upon D&ud. His elephants, being worried by the
arrows, turned round upon the body of his army, and the stone
of dismay was cast among them. The banner of Kh&n-kh&n&n
now became visible, and the death of Gujar Kh&n came to the
knowledge of D&ud. This shook his resolution, and he turned
and fled. Immense booty fell into the hands of the victors, and
Khan-kh&n&n encamped victorious on the battle-field. He
remained there a few days, to have his wounds tended, and sent
a report of the victory to the Emperor. All the prisoners taken
were put to the sword. Lashkar Kh&n Mtr-bakhsM, who had
^ AltafMk is a Turki word meaning " sixty," and it is applied to a force placed at
the head of an army between the advanced guard and the general. — See 9uprdf p. 364.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
388 NIZAMTJ.D DfN AHMAD.
rendered such good service, died of his wounds before the army
moved.
Conclmion of peace with Ddud. Sis interview mth Khdn-khdndn.
After his defeat, D&ud fled to Katak Ban&ras (Guttack), in the
centre of Orissa, and Eh&n-kh&n&n, who remained stationary on
account of his wounds, held a council, in which he and his amirs
determined to pursue Ddud.^ R&j& Todar Mai and * • * were
directed to proceed after him, and it was agreed that Eh&n-
kh&nin himself would follow as soon as his wounds permitted.
The R&jd and his amirs accordingly started, and did not halt
until they reached Kalkal-gh&ti.^ After resting there a while,
the scouts brought in the intelligence that D&ud and the Afgh&ns,
with their wives and children, were shut up in the fort of Katak
Ban&ras. Reduced to extremities, and having no other refuge,
the men were resolved upon fighting, and fugitives from the
field of battle daily gathered round them. R&ji Todar Mai
sent a report of the state of affairs to Kh&n-kh&n&n,^ and the
Kh&n set out for Katak Ban&ras, never resting till he came
within two kos of that place. Then he held a council with his
amirSy and having pitched his camp on the banks of the Mah&-
nadi, which is half a kos from Katak, he began to collect
materials for a siege.
D&ud had suffered several defeats in succession, and Gujar
Kh&n, his mainstay and support, was slain. Death stared him in
the face ; so, in hia despair and misery, he sent a messenger to
Kh&n-kh&n&n with a message to this effect : ^^ The striving to
crush a party of Musulm&ns is no noble work. I am ready to
submit and become a subject ; but I beg that a comer of this
^ *< A large number of Afgb&n prisonen were put to death by order of Ehfim-
khtofiin."— r. Aifi.
' Aba-l Fazl calls the place " Bhadrak." The <* Bhudnick" of Thornton, north
of Cuttack. Bad&ani and Faizl Sirhindl follow the Tabakdt, and haye << Kalkal-
gh&tl."
3 According to Ab&-1 Fazl, the R&j&'s men were despondent, and he was obliged
to call for support.— ^Ar^r-iMJma, toL iii. p. 107.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAET. 389
wide country of Beng&I sufficient for my support may be assigned
to me. If this is granted, I will rest content, and never after
rebel." The amirs communicated this to Kh&n-kh&n&n, and
after considerable discussion, it was determined to accept the
proposal,^ upon the condition that D&dd himself should come
out to meet Kh&n-kh&n&n, and confirm the agreement by solemn
binding oaths.'
Next day' Khan-kh&n&n ordered a grand Court to be held,
and all the nobles and attendants to be present in their places in
fine array, and the troops drawn up in arms in front of the
tents. D&dd came out of the fort, attended by his Afgh&n
nobles and officers, and proceeded to the tent of Kh&n-kh&n&n.
When he approached it, Kh4n-khan&n, with great courtesy and
respect, rose up and walked half-way down the tent to meet
him. When they met, D&ud loosened his sword from the belt,
and holding it before him, said, " I am tired of war since it
inflicts wounds on worthy men like you." Kh&n-kh&n&n took
the sword, and handed it to one of his attendants. Then gently
taking Daud by the hand, he seated him by his side, and made
the most kind and fatherly inquiries. Food and drink and
sweetmeats were served, of which the Kh&n pressed him to
partake.
After the dishes were removed, the terms of peace came under
discussion. D&ud protested that he would never take any course
hostile to the Imperial throne, and he confirmed his promise
by the most stringent oaths. The treaty of peace was drawn
up, and then Kh&n-kh&nan brought a sword with a jewelled
belt of great value out of his stores, and presenting it to D4ud,
* " R&J& Todar Mai, who weU understood the true posiiion of affaire, though he
wrung his hands and stamped his feet (to prevent the annistice), met with no
support." He refused to take any part in the BGiilemenU—Akbar^ndma, yoI. iiu
p. 108.
' The terms were that D&6d was to do homage of service, to surrender his best
elephants, and pay up his tribute. Eventually he was to go to Court and do homage
in person, but for the present some relations were to be sent as hostages. His
nephew Shaikh Muhammad was the hostage. — Akbar-ndmaj vol. iii. p. 108.
3 IstMuharram, 983 (12th April, l676).-^Akbar'ndma, vol. iii. p. 108.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
390 KIZAttU-D DTN AHMAD.
Baid, '' You have now become a subject of the Imperial throne,
and have promised to give it your support. I have therefore
requested that the country of Orissa may be settled upon yoa
for your support, and I feel assured that His Majesty will
confirm my proposition— granting this to you as my tankhwdh
has been granted to me. I now gird you afresh with tliis war-
like sword.'' Then he bound on the sword with his own hands ;
and showing him every courtesy, and making him a great variety
of gifts, he dismissed him. The Court then broke up, and
Kh&n-kh4n&n started on his return.
On the 10th Saiar, 983, he reached T&nda the capital, and
sent a report of his arrangements to the Emperor, who was
greatly delighted and satisfied with the conquest of Bengal.
Splendid robes and jewelled swords, and a horse with a golden
saddle, were sent to Eh&n-kh&n&n, and all the arrangements he
had made were confirmed.
While Kh&n-kh&n&n was occupied at Katak Ban&ras, the sons
of Jalalu-d din Sur, in concert with the zamknddrs of Ghord-
gh&t, attacked and defeated Majnun Kh&n, drove him to the
neighbourhood of Tinda, and captured the fort of Gaur. Mu'in
Kh&n and Majnun Kh&n provided for the security of Tanda^ and
awaited intelligence of Kh&u-kh&nan's success. When his return
became known, the insurgents scattered and hid themselves in
the jungles.^
Building of an 'Jbddat-Khdna.
The Emperor had from his early youth taken delight in the
society of learned and accomplished men, and had found pleasure
in the assemblies of men of imagination and genius. He always
treated them with the greatest respect and honour, and frequently
graced their heavenly meetings. He listened to their discus-
sions of nice points of science, of the ancient and modem history
of religions and people and sects, and of all matters of worldly
^ Abd-l Fazl says that Mu*nim Kh&n went to Ghorli-gh&t, and snppreswd the
iasurrectioD. — Akbar-ndma, yol. iii. p. 140.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARI. 391
interest ; and he profited by what he heard. His great &yoar for
sach men, led him at the time of his return from Ajmir in the
month of Zi-l ka'da, 982, and in the twentieth year of his reign, to
issue his commands for skilful architects and clever builders to
erect in the gardens of the royal palace a refuge for 8&Ji8y and a
home for holy men, into which none should be allowed to enter
but saiyids of high rank, learned men (^ulamd)y and shaikhs. In
obedience to the Imperial commands, skilful architects planned a
building, containing four halls (aiwdnj^ and in a brief period
completed it. When this happy abode was finished, the Emperor
used to go there on Friday nights and on holy nights, and pass
the night until the rising of the sun in the society of distin-
guished men. It was arranged that the western hall should be
occupied by saiyids^ the south by the learned Qulama) and the
wise, the northern by shaikhs and men of ecstasy (arbab^i hdl) ;
all without confusion or intermixture. The nobles and officers of
the Court, whose tastes were in unison with those of men of
greatness and excellence, were to sit in the eastern hall. His
Majesty graced each of the four halls with his presence, and
enriched those present with his gifts and bounty. The members
of the assembly used to select a number of the most worthy
among those present to be presented to His Majesty, and to
receive from him handfuls of mhrafts and rupees. Those, who
from evil fortune did not participate in the royal bounty in the
evening, used to sit down in rows before the 'ibddat-khdna on
Friday mornings, and receive handfuls of ashrafis and rupees
from His Majesty ""s own hands. This assemblage used fre-
quently to last beyond mid-day on Fridays. Sometimes, when
His Majesty was tired, one of the attendants of the Court, in
whose kindness and gentleness he had confidence, was deputed
to perform this duty. * ♦
In this year Gulbadan Begam, daughter of the Emperor
B&bar, and aunt of Akbar, piously undertook the journey to
Mecca. When Gujar&t was annexed to the Imperial dominions,
he determined that every year one of the officers of his Court
Digitized by VjOOQIC
392 NIZAMTJ.D DfN AHMAD.
should be appointed Mir H&ji, or Leader of the Pilgrims, to
conduct a caravan from Hindust&n, like the caravans from Egypt
and Syria, to the holy places. This design was carried out, and
every year a party of enlightened men of Hind, of M4war4u-n
nahr, and Khur&s&n, received provision for their journey from
the royal treasury, and went under the appointed leader from
the ports of Gnjar&t to the holy places.^ Never before had any
monarch provided for the annual departure of a caravan from
India, nor had any one furnished means to the needy, to enable
them to perform the pilgrimage. Gulbadan and Salima Sultin
Begam^ now obtained the Emperor'^s permission to go the
pilgrimage, and received from him a sum of money for the
expenses of the journey. All the pious poor who desired to
join in the pilgrimage obtained the means of travelling.
Arrival of Mirzd Snlaimdn.
Mirz4 Sulaim&n had been ruler of Badakhsh&n since the time
of the Emperor Babar. He had a son, Mirzd Ibralnm, a fine
intelligent young man, who was taken prisoner in battle and
killed by the adherents of Pir Muhammad Eh&n Uzbek, in the
year that Mirzd Sulaimdn invaded Balkh. Mirza Ibr&him left
a son, Sh&h Rukh by name, whom Sulaimfin carefully brought
up, and to whom, in spite of his tender age, he gave several
districts of Badakhshdn.
When Sh4h Bukh arrived at years of discretion, and Mirz&
Sulaim&n grew old, some designing people incited the youth
with stories of his rights. But the Mirza'^s wife was a clever
woman; she kept a sharp watch over Sh&h Rukh, and pre-
vented any outbreak. But when she died, these same people
stirred up Sh4h Bukh's ambition to be ruler of Badakhsh&n.
He came from Kunduz to Kol&b, and being supported by his
1 ''After five or six years, this arraogemenfc was set aside." ^Bad&iini, toL ii.
p. 213.
a *< Daughter of Nuni-d din Muhammad Mirzfi, who was married to Bairfrm
Kh&n " (see suprdy p. 256).— Bad&dnl, toI. ii. p. 213.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBABr. 393
party, the whole of Badakhsh&n, from His&r Sh&^m&n to K&bul,
fell into his hands, and he wanted to send his grandfather to
join his father.
Mirz& Sulaim&n fled in great distress to seek assistance from
Muhammad Hakfm Mirz&. But he did not meet with the
reception he expected, so he begged to be sent on to the Indus.
Hakim Mirz& did not comply with this trifling request. He
sent him a party of pretended guides, who left him at the first
stage and fled to K&bul. But Mirz& Sulaim&n, trusting in God,
continued his journey,^ and although he was sometimes opposed
by the Afgh&ns, and had to fight his way, and was wounded by
an arrow^ he at length reached the Indus. Thence he wrote to
the Emperor, who sent him 50,000 rupees, horses, and neces-
saries, by the hand of Khw&ja Xkk Khan, * * * and after some
days II&J& Bhagw&n D&s^ came to the Indus with an escort,
and conducted him honourably to Lahore.
At this time h/armdn was sent to summon ^Azam Khkn from
Gujar&t, and he arrived at Court' with speed and alacrity.
Some cavillers and fault-finders made insinuations about his
management of aflairs,^ and the Khdn, in defending himself,
passed the bounds of prudence and respect, and made use of
unseemly words, which brought upon him the displeasure of the
Emperor. Thereupon the Kh4n, forgetful of his duty, retired
to his garden at Agra, shut himself up alone, and refused admis-
sion to everybody.
Mirzd Sulaim&n, after staying a few days at Lahore, started
for Fathpur. On reaching Mathura, twenty kos from Fathpur,
the Emperor sent * * several nobles to meet him, and to arrange
for his meeting the Emperor on the 15th Bajab, 983. All the
nobles and officers were sent out to the distance of five kos from
^ He had his daughter with him.— Bad&tinf, vol. ii. p. 214.
« Then ruler of Lahore.— BadWni, toI. ii. p. 214. » On the 4th Rajah, 983 h.
* Ah6-1 Fazl {Akbar-ndma, toI. iii. p. 126) says the charge was ahout the hranding
of the horses ; hut Bad&6ni (toL ii. p. 214) states that there were complaints also
against his revenue, military and general administration. They agree that he was
sent into retirement.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
394 KIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
Fathpur to receive him. And when intelligence of his having
left this stage was brought, the Emperor himself went out on
horseback to meet him. Five thousand elephants, with housings
of velvet and brocade, with gold and silver chains, and with
white and black fringes on their necks and trunks, were drawn
up in lines on each side of the road to the distance of five kos
from Fathpur. Between each two elephants there was a cart
(ardba\ the chitaa in which had collars studded with gold and
housings of fine cloth ; also two bullock-carts, which had animals
that wore gold-embroidered headstalls.
When alPthe arrangements were made, the Emperor went
out with great pomp and splendour. Upon approaching, the
Mirzi hastened to dismount, and ran forward to His Majesty ;
but the Emperor observing the venerable age of the Mirz&,
also alighted from his horse, and would not allow the Mirz& to
go through the usual observances and ceremonies. He fondly
embraced him ; then he mounted and made the Mirz& ride on
his right hand. All the five kos he inquired about his circum-
stances, and on reaching the palace he seated him by his side on
the throne. The young princes also were present, and were
introduced to the Mirz&, and after a great entertainment, he
gave the Mirzd a house near to the royal palace. On this
occasion an order was issued to Kh&n-jahan, the ruler of the
Panjab, to take 5000 horse and proceed to Badakhshan in
attendance on the Mirz&, to recover the country and restore it
to him, and then to return to Lahore.
Death of Khdn-khdndn Mu^nim Khan.
When Eh4n-kh&ndn, with his mind at ease about D&ud, re-
turned to T&nda, the capital of the country, under the influence
of his evil destiny, he took a dislike to T4nda, and crossing the
Ganges, he founded a home for himself at the fortress of Gaur,
which in old times had been the capital of Bengal,^ and he ordered
^ He was inflaenced by two reasons. It was on the side of the rirer nearest lo
Ghor&-gh&t, the seat of the rebellion, and it contained many handsome and oonveoient
buildings.— ^X-W-wc/ma, yoL iii. p. 140. Faizt Sirhindi.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARF. 895
that all the soldiers and raiyats should remove from T&nda to
Gaur. In the height of the rains the people were involved in
the trouble of expatriation. The air of Gaur is extremely un-
healthy, and in former times, the many diseases which distressed
its inhabitants induced the rulers to abandon the place, and raise
the town of T&nda. Sickness of many kinds now broke out
among the people, and every day numbers of men departed from
Gaur to the grave,^ and bade farewell to relatives and friends.
By degrees the pestilence reached to such a pitch that men were
unable to bury the dead, and cast the corpses into the river.*
Every day the deaths of many amirs and officers were reported
to Kh&n-kh&n&n^ but he took no warning, and made no resolu-
tion to change his residence. He was so great a man that no
one had the courage to remove the cotton of heedlessness from
his ears, and bring him to a sense of the actual position. His
own health became affected, and he grew worse, and at the end
of ten days, in the month of Safar, 983, he departed this life.
His nobles and officers, who had so often met to congratulate him,
now assembled to lament him. They placed Sh&ham Kh&n
Jal&ir in command,* and made a report of the foots to the Em-
peror. Kh&n-kh&n^n had no son, so all his property escheated
to the royal exche<^uer, and an account of it was made out.
When the despatch reached His Majesty, he appointed Kh&n-
jahan, who had been supreme governor of the Panj&b, to be
governor of Bengal. He raised him to the dignity oiamiru-l umard,
commended the raiyats and people to his tender care, bestowed
upon him gifts of embroidered coats, jewelled swords, and a
richly-caparisoned horse, and dismissed him to his government.
Kh&n-jah&n, furnished with full credentials, then departed to
assume his authority.
^ At gaur ha gor : the tvro words being 'written exactly alike. A neat though
misplaced pun.
* " Out of the many thousand men that were sent to that country, not more than a
hundred were known to haye returned in safety." —Bad&iSnf, vol. ii. p. 217.
' Upon this appointment, BadWnT, in his caustic way, quotes the proverb — ** In
the treeless land the shrub Falma Chritti is a tree."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
396 NIZAMTJ.D DfN AHMAD.
Ttoenty-first year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Sunday, 9th
Zi-1 hijja, 983 h. (11th March, 1576 a.d.)
Mirzd Sulaimdn's Journey to Mecca.
* * The Emperor had determined that Kh&n-jah&n shoald
march with the array of the Panjab to recover the country of
Badakhsh&n, but fate ruled otherwise. Kh&n-kh&n&n, the ruler
of Bengal, was removed by death, and the Emperor deeming
the retention and administration of that country more important
than the conquest of Badakhshfin, sent Eh&n-jah&n thither.
When Mirzd Sulaim&n saw this change of fortune, he sought
leave of the Emperor, through the officers of state, to go on the
pilgrimage. The Emperor complied with his request, and fur-
nished him with 50,000 rupees in cash, besides other things
required for the journey. He sent with him, to attend upon him
in his journey to the coast, Muhammad Kalij Kh&n, one of the
chief nobles, who had been appointed governor of Surat. When
the Mirz& went on board ship, twenty thousand rupees more were
given to him out of the revenues of Gujar&t. The Mirz& per-
formed the pilgrimage in the same year, and afterwards returned
and recovered his kingdom of Badakhshdn.
On the 7th Zi-1 ka'da, 984, the Emperor set off on a visit to
Ajmir. He hunted as he went, and on the 4th Zi-1 hijja he en-
camped at ten kos from Ajmir. He afterwards, as usual, walked
five ko8 on foot to the tomb of the saint, and after going through
all the observances of the pilgrimage, he gave away two thousand
rupees in charity.
Ttcenty-second year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with the 20th Zi-1
liijja, 984 H. (11th March, 1577 a.d.).
While the Emperor was encamped at Ajmir, the intelligence
was brought to him that Dfiud Afgh&n had flung away the treaty
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAKr. 397
T?hich he had made with Kh&n-kh&n&n, had risen against the
royal authority, and had marched against T&nda. The Imperial
officers in that quarter, having no chief among them on whom they
could rely, had abandoned the country, and retired to Hajipdr
and Patna. All this commotion had arisen because Eh&n-jah&n
had taken his time in going, there in consequence of his army
being at Lahore. Upon receiving this intelligence, the Emperor
sent a letter by Subh&n Kuli Turk to Kh&n-jah&n, directing him
to take with him all the amirs and jdgirddra who had abandoned
Bengal, and to march against D4ud. In twenty-two days
Subh&n Eull travelled nearly a thousand kos,^ (!) and delivered
the farman to Xh&n-jah&n. The Xh&n took the field, and ad-
vanced into Bengal. He had an action with three thousand men
whom D&ud had left in charge of Garhi, and took the place.
Nearly fifteen hundred of the enemy were slain, and many chiefs
were made prisoners.
Whilst the Emperor was staying at Ajmir, he sent Eunwar
M&n Singh, a brave and able man, with five thousand horse,
against R&n& Kik&.» He also sent K4zi Kh&n Badakhshi, ***
and other ambitious young men with him. ^saf Kh&n was
appointed Mir-bakhahi of this army. His Majesty presented
Kunwar M&n Singh and all the amirs and sarddrs of the army
with robes and horses. After fitting out this army, he started
to return home on the 20th Muharram, and reached Fathptir on
the Ist Safar, 985 h.
After his arrival at Fathpur, messengers arrived with the in-
telligence that Kh&n-jah&n, after the capture of Garhi, had
advanced to the vicinity of T&nda. There he found that D&ud
had evacuated T&nda, and had taken up a position in the village
of ^k.' On one flank was the river, on the other a mountain^
1 Bad&dnr (toL ii. p. 227) confirms this.
> « Against Kokanda and Eombalmir, the territory of R&n& Eik&."— Bad&dni,
ToL ii. p. 228. Kombalmlr is in the Ar&yalli mountains, about forty miles north of
Udipdr.
> Or " Ak-mah&l '' or Ag&-mah&l, afterwards caUed " R&j-mah&l " by R&j& M&n
Singh, when goyemor of Bengal. The ancient name was E&j&-griha,
Digitized by VjOOQIC
398 NIZAMU-D BfN AHMAD.
and he had thrown up entrenchments to secure his position.
Kh&u-jah&n marched against him, and sharp fighting followed.
One day Khw&ja ^Abdu-lla, one of the Imperial officers, ad-
vanced from his battery to the edge of the Afgh&n entrenchment.
The enemy sallied forth and attacked him, and he fell, fighting
bravely. On hearing of his fall, the Emperor's anger was
roused, and he sent an order to MuzaSar Eh&n, the governor
of Patna and Bih&r, to assemble all the troops in his province,
and to march to the assistance of Kh&n-jah&n. In a few days,
a letter arrived from Kh&n-jah&n, with the news that there had
been a battle with the enemy, in which the royal troops had
fought bravely, and had won a victory, in which they killed
the commander of the enemy's army, who was called Kh&n-
kh&n&n.
Defeat of Rand Kikd by Kuntcar Man Singh.
R&n& Kik& was chief among the B&j&s of Hindust&n. After
the conquest of Ghitor, he built a town called Kokanda,^ with
fine houses and gardens, in the mountains of Hinduw&ra. There
he passed his days in rebellion. When Kunwar M4n Sing*
drew near to Eokanda, R&n& Kik& called all the B&j&s of Hindu-
w&ra to his aid, and came out of Gh4ti Haldeo ' with a strong
force to oppose his assailant. Eunwar M&n Singh, in agreement
with his amirs, put his troops in array and marched to the battle-
field. Some desperate charges were made on both sides, and
the battle raged for a watch with great slaughter. The B&jpdts
in both armies fought fiercely in emulation of each other.*
Nearly 150 horsemen of the royal army were killed, and more
^ This is the spelling of our MSS., of Bad&6ni and of the Lucknow ediHon of the
Akbar-ndma, Todd calls the place *' Grogoonda." Blochmann {Ain-i Akbarif toL i.
p. 339) writes it '* Gogandah."
* M&n Singh was supported hy Asaf Khan, and marched from Ajmir by way of
M&ndalgarh.— Bad&tini, toI. ii. p. 230.
8 Or Haldi-gh&t.
* The RkjpCits of the royal army were commanded by R&j& Lon Kanm of S&m-
bhar.— Bad&iinl, toL ii. p. 331.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEr. 399
than 500 B&jputs of the enemy's army were sent to perdition.^
The enemy lost B&meswar Gwali&ri and his son,' and the son of
Jai Mai. On that day B&n& Kik& fought obstinately till he
receiyed wounds from an arrow and from a spear ; he then turned
to save his life, and left the field of battle. The Imperial forces
pursued the B&jputs, and killed numbers of them. Kunwar
M&n Sing wrote an account of his victory to the Emperor.
Next day he went through the pass of Haldeo, and entered
Kokanda. He took up his abode in the house of 'R&nk Kikd,
and again returned thanks to the Almighty (sic). B&n& Klkk
fled into the high hills for refuge. ' The Emperor rewarded
Kunwar Man Sing and his amirs with robes and horses.
Khdn-jahdrCs campaign against Dditd.
When the battle fought by Khan-jah&n became known to the
Emperor, he sent five lacs of rupees by ddk-chauki towards
defraying the expenses of the array. Orders were given for
the despatch of boats laden with grain from -d^ra, for the use of
the army. ♦ * ♦
Gajpati was a zaminddr in the neighbourhood of H&jipur and
Patna, who had been enrolled among the partisans of the
Emperor. When Muzafiar Eh&n went with reinforcements to
Kh&n-jahan, leaving this country void of troops, he collected a
party and attacked Farhat Kh&n and his son Mirak B&wi, wh6
were at the station of Arab. In the fight which ensued Farhat
Kh&n and his son were killed. Great disturbances followed, and
the roads were closed.
^ Bad&dni was in this battle, and g:iTe8 a detailed account of it. The Imperialists
had a hard victory, and were much indebted to their Hindd auxiliaries on this, as
on many other occasions. But notwithstanding this and the enlightened policy of
the Emperor, the Mnsulman generals could not repress their contemptuous hatred
of the iafideL Bad&iini (vol. iL p. 231) relates that he was with a party of the
advanced force, and in the middle of the fight he asked Asaf Kh&n how they were to
distinguish between their R&jpilt friends and foes. They were told to shoot at a
venture, let the consequences be what they might. *' So," says he, ** we kept up the
discharge of arrows, and our aim at that mountain-like mass (of men) never failed."
« Named " S&libah&n" (Bad&tinl, vol. ii. p. 233). The Jai Mai referred to was
the hero of Chitor.
Digitized by VJjOOQIC
400 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
When intelligence of this reached the Emperor at Fathpur,
on the 25th Babru-1 &khir he set off. At five koB distance he
made a halt, and issned orders for the assembling of troops, and
for the preparation of boats and artillery. Here he was waited
upon by 'Abda41a Kh&n, whom he had sent as a messenger to
Kh&n-jah&n, and who now returned to cast the head of D&ud
at the foot of the Emperor^s throne. Bejoiced at the victory,
he returned to the capital.
Saiyid ' Abdu-lla Kh&n thus rehearsed the story of the victory.
Muzaffar Kh4n arrived with the forces of Bihar, H4jipur, and
Patna, amounting to nearly 5000 horse, and joined Kli&n-jah4n.
On the 15th Babi'u-1 &khir, 984, they drew out their forces and
attacked the enemy. D4dd also, supported by his uncle Junaid
Kir&ni and other Afgh4n chiefs, made his dispositions. Junaid
was struck by a cannon-ball. His leg was broken. After a
while the armies closed with each other, and the enemy was
defeated. D4ud being lefb. behind, was made prisoner, and
Kh4n-jah4n had his head struck off, and sent it to His Majesty.
Great spoil and many elephants fell into the hands of the
victors. ♦ • *
At this time, Sult&n Khw4ja was appointed Mir Haji, and a
sum of six lacs of rupees in cash and goods was assigned for
the benefit of the poor people about to make the pilgrimage to
the holy places, and given into his charge. He was directed to
furnish what was necessary to any one desirous of being a
pilgrim, and many benefited by this liberality.
[The annual pilgrimage to the tomb of Khwi^'a MuHnu-d din
at Ajmir.2
It has already been related how B4j4 M4n Singh defeated
Bran4 Kik4, and occupied his cdtintry — how the B4n4 fled into
the high hills, and how the army penetrated to Kokanda, which
was the Bdna's home. The roads to this place were so difficult
that little grain reached it, and the army was nearly famished.
The order was given for M4n Singh to fall back quickly, and he
very soon arrived at the Emperor's throne. When the distress
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBABF. 401
of the army was inquired into, it appeared that, although the
men were in such great straits, Kunwar M&n Singh would not
suffer any plundering of R&n& Kik&''s country. This caused the
Emperor to be displeased with him, and he was banished from
Court for a time.^ After a while he was forgiven, and was sent
at the head of a force to ravage the B&n&''s country. It must
be understood that in the language of Hind ^' Kunwar '' signifies
'*son of a B&J&." On the 19th of the month the army marched
from Ajmir towards the B&n&^s country.
Khvoaja Shah Mamdr made Diwdn.
Sh&h Mansdr, a Shir&zi clerk, at the beginning of his career
was employed in the royal perfumery department. But Muzaffar
Kh&n was then in power, and he caused him to be first im-
prisoned, and afterwards banished from Court. He then entered
the service of Eh&n-kh&n&n Mu'nim Khan at Jaunpur^ and rose
to be his diwdn. The conversation of the Kh&n made his
abilities known to the Emperor, and after Kh&n-kh4n&n's death,
Mansur was summoned to Court, and appointed to the office of
diwdn in chief.^
Sult&n Khw&ja had been appointed Mir H&ji, or Leader of the
Pilgrims, and as the road to Gujar&t vid Kokanda was nearest,
Kutbu-d din Kh4n * * and the other amirs were ordered to
escort the caravan through Kokanda. They were directed to
plunder and lay waste the country of B&n& Kik&, and to follow
him up, and harry him wherever they might hear of him.
When Sttlt&n Khw&ja was about to depart- on the pilgrimage,
the Emperor, acting after the manner of pilgrims, stripped him-
self, put on the ihrdm or pilgrim's garment, and went some steps
after the Khw4ja.' A cry arose from those present, and their
voices were raised in benediction and praise.
^ Bad&dni (vol. ii. p. 240} tells us that Asaf Kh&n fell into dugrace along with
the Knnwar; hntthat the others, including Bad&fini himself, received rewards and
promotion. ' Ahridged translation.
' According to the Akhar-ndma (toI. iii. p. 165), the Emperor had a strong desire
to go on the pilgrimage, hut was dissuaded by his friends and coansellors.
TOL. T. 26
Digitized by VjOOQIC
402 NIZAMU-D DTN AHMAD.
When His Majesty reached the pargana of Mohi/ news came
in from the front that Eutbu-d din Kh&n and the other amirs,
on arriving at Kokanda, found that the R&n& had fled into the
hills. Orders were then given for Kntbu-d din and R&j4 Bhag-
w&n D&s to remain at Kokanda, and for Kalij Kh&n and the
other amirs to accompany the caravan of pilgrims as far as fdar.
The amirs were to stop at f dar, and lay siege to it ; but they were
to send on an escort with the caravan as far as Ahmad&b&d,
forty-eight kos from War. When Kalij Kh&n arrived there, he
found that the Br&j&* had fled into the hills, but that a party of
B&jputs remained in the temple resolved upon death. They
were all killed in a short time. Next day Kalij Eh&n sent on
Timur Badakhshi with the caravan to Ahmad&b&d. Here
Shah4bu-d din Ahmad * * * and other jdgirddrs of M&lwa
came in to pay their respects.
Grants of mansabs to various chiefs.
When the Emperor reached l/diptir, a despatch arrived from
Sultdn Khwfija, the Mir Haji, from the port of Surat, reporting
that, owing to no pass {haul) having been obtained from the
Europeans, the ship was useless. The Emperor directed a mes-
senger to be sent to Kalij Kh&n to bring him quickly to Surat» in
order to secure the departure of the vessel. During Kalij Kh&n's
absence, Asaf Kh&n was to have the command of his army.
Kutbu-d din Khan and B&j& Bhagw4n D&s returned from
Kokanda, and waited upon the Emperor. Sh&h Fakhm-d din
and Jagannath were left in l/dipur, and Itaj& Bhagwfin D&s and
Saiyid 'Abdu-lla Kh&n were left in Dhauli-gh&ti of l/dfpur.
When His Majesty came into the territory of B&nsw&Ia
(B&nsw&ra) and Dungarpdr, the K&j&s and zaminddrs of the
country came to wait upon him with their ofierings, and were
right royally received.' Here also B&j& Todar Mai came from
» " Mohani."— Bad&6ii(, yol. ii. p. 241.
» "N6.rWn D&s" by name.— BadSiiSnf, yol. ii. p. 241. .
3 Aba-l Fazl specifies ** R&wal Part&b, chief of B&naw&ra, and H&wal Askaran,
chief {marzbdn) of D(ingarpf&r." — Akbar»fUtmUf vol. iii. p. 169.
Digitized by VjQO^lC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 403
Bengal to wait upon him, bringing nearly 500 elephants from
the spoils of Bengal, with other presents and offerings. Kalij
Kh&n also arrived to attend upon him, and was sent to Surat
to despatch the ships. He went along with Kaly&n Br&i, a
merchant (bakkdl) ; and having got passes {haul) from the
Europeans, he sent off the ships. He quickly returned, and
waited upon His Majesty, while he was in M&lwa. ' After
arranging his posts (jthdnajdf) to his satisfaction, and securing
the loyalty of the zaminddrs^ he entered M&lwa.
Twenty-third year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Tuesday, the
2nd Muharram, 986 h.^ (11th March, 1578).
The festivals of the Nau-roz and of the Emperor's accession
were celebrated in the pargana of Dip&lpur, a dependency of
M&lwa. The Emperor devoted his attention to measures for
increasing the prosperity of this country, and the raiyata waited
upon him in parties, and made statements of their circumstances.
He paid the kindest attention to every one's case, and made a
satisfactory settlement of the affairs of the province. Many
zaminddra became submissive and obedient to his will.
B4j& 'Alf Kh&n, the ruler of Aaiv and Burh&npur, had not
been duly subordinate, and it being deemed necessary to chastise
him, several amira^ such as Shah&bu-d din Ahmad and * *, with
other jdgirddrs of M&lwa, were sent against him. Shahabd-d
din was appointed commander. Shahb&z Khan, the Mtr-bakhshi^
was to check the brands (of the horses) and the muster of the
army. The other amirs were to exercise their diligence, and
secure the speedy departure of the force.
At this same place B&j& Todar Mai was commissioned to
1 Tlie MS. has 985, but this is a manifest error. The Akbar-ndma (vol. iii.
p. 203) is correct. The twenty-second year began [suprd, p. 396) on the 20th ZM
hijja, 984, and being a solar year, it extended over the whole of Hijra 98d, and ended
<m the 1st day of 986. The oversight of this fact has given rise to some confnsion in
the dates about this period, and the events here recorded as having occurred in the
twenty-third year of the reign are placed by Abii-1 Fazl in the twenty-second. See
Table, p. 246 auprd.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
404 NIZAMTJ-D DFN AHMAD.
settle the revenue and other affairs of the province of Gajar&t.
News also was brought from the force at f dar, that a battle had
been fought with B&j& N&r&in Dfis and a victory gained. The
particulars of the occurrence were these: When Muhammad
Kalij Kh&n, in obedience to orders, repaired to the Imperial
camp along with 'All Mur&d Uzbek, the army was left under
the command of ^af Khfin. Intelligence came in that the
B&J4 of f dar, with a number of B&jputs who had been driven
from their homes, together with some zaminddra of the country,
and supported by E&j& Kik&, had gathered a force which was
posted ten kos distance, and contemplated a night attack. When
this intelligence was confirmed, Asaf Kh&n and * * * held a
council. About 500 men were left to secure the camp, and the
rest of the force was called out at midnight, and marched towards
the enemy. On the morning of the 4th Zi-l hijja, after marching
seven kos^ they encountered the foe, and a battle began. Mirz&
Muhammad Mukim, who led the advance, was killed ; but the
enemy was defeated. B&j4 N&r&in D&s fled, and the chiefe of
the royal army obtained the victory. Asaf Eh&n's despatch
gave His Majesty much pleasure, and he ordered letters of
thanks to be written to the amirs and officers of the army.
When His Majesty had arranged the affairs of M&lwa, and
settled the matters of the amirs of ^ir and Burh&npur, he
turned homewards; and, hunting as he went, he arrived at
Fathpur on Sunday, 23rd Safar. After three months, troubles
arose in Gujar&t, through the coming thither of Muzaffiu* Husain
Mirza, son of Ibr&him Mirz&, who was son of the daughter of
Edmr&n Mirz&. The circumstances of his case are these:
When the Emperor was engaged in the siege of Surat, Gulrukh
Begam, daughter of K&mr&n and wife of Ibr&him, carried off
her child Muzaffar Husain, as has been related in the account
given of the conquest of Ahmadab&d. A disaffected man named
Mihr 'All, a servant of the late Ibr&him Mirzd, who accompanied
Gulrukh Begam when she fled from Surat to the Dekhin, now
stirred up the ambition of Muzaffar Husain, who was fifteen or
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAET. 405
sixteen years of age. He induced him to leave the Dekhin, and
collecting a number of adventurers from all directions, he entered
Gujar&t intent upon insurrection.
At this time B&j& Todar Mai was in Pattan, engaged in the
settlement of the revenue. The insurrection spread, and the
disaffected were everywhere raising their heads. Wazir Kh&n,
the ruler of Gujar&t, had 3000 horsemen, but there were amongst
them many adventurous men upon whom he could not rely, so
he retired into a fortress, itnd sent an account of the occurrences
to B&J4 Todar Mai. Before the Baj& came to his assistance,
B&z Bah&dur, son of Sharif Eh&n, and B&ba Gad&i, the ditvdn
of Gujar&t, attacked Muzaffar Husain in the pargana of Nan-
durb&r,^ and were defeated. Muzaffar Husain then went to
Eambay,' and after staying two or three days, he went off
towards Ahraad&b&d. B&ja Todar Mai turned back from Pattan,
and arrived at Ahmad&b&d.
When the insurgents heard of this, they fell back, and went
towards Dulaka. The B&j& and Wazir Kh&n pursued them,
and coming up with them at Dulaka, a battle ensued, in which
the royal forces were victorious, and the enemy drew off to
Jdn&garh. B&j& Todar Mai then departed on his return to
Court.
Muzaffar Husain, as soon as he heard of the B&j&'s depar-
ture, came back and besieged Wazir Kh&n in Ahmad&b&d ; for
although Wazir Eh&n's force was large, it was not trustworthy,
and so he was obliged to seek the shelter of the fortress.^ Mihr
'Ali, the vakil of Muzaffar Husain, and the great prop of the
revolt, brought forward scaling-ladders to attempt an assault,
but he was sent to hell* by a bullet from the fortress. When he
1 In Kh&ndeBh. This is written Nadarbar and Naryadaba in the MSS. Bad&dnl
has " Paaad."
s Bat failed to gain poisession of the fort. — Akbar-ndma, yol. iii p. 181.
* The rebels had a number of partisans in the city also, who acted in concert with
them. — Akbar-ndma, toI. iii. p. 187.
* This charitable expression, though commonly used for the deaths of infidels, is
not reserred ezclusively for them.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
406 NIZAMTT-D DIN AHMAD.
was removed, MuzaSar Husain withdrew, and went towards
Salt&npilr. So the insurrection came to an end.
Arrival of the amirs with an Imperial army at Asir and
Burhdnpur,
It has been mentioned above, that Shah&b Kh&n and other
amirs were sent with 10,000 horse against ^sir and Barh4npdr.
When E&J4 'Ali Kh&n heard of the approach of this force, he
drew in his horns and crept into his fortress. The amirs entered
the country, and did not stop till they reached Bijanagar.^ Great
dissension arose in the country of ^sir, and B&j& 'Ali Kh4n was
reduced to be^ pardon for his offences. He promised the amirs
to send suitable tribute and some elephants in charge of his
people to the Emperor's Court. At this time, Kutbu-d din
Muhammad Kh&n separated from the other amirs, and went off to
Nandurbar and Sult&npur, in consequence of disturbances which
had arisen in his jdffirs of Broach and Baroda, through the pro-
ceedings of Muzaffar Husain. The disorders in ^ir and Bur-
h&nplir which the amirs had been sent to settle being ended, by
the submission of B&j& 'Ali and his payment of tribute, the
amirs retired to iheir respective jdgirs. When Hakim ^Ainu-l
Mulk, who had gone on an embassy to '^dil the ruler of the
Dekhin, returned, he was sent with the elephants and the tribute
to the Imperial Court.
[^The annual pilgrimage to Ajmir.']
The Emperor, on his return journey, when he reached the
neighbourhood of Ambir,* ordered a fort and town to be founded
in the village of Mulath&n,' one of the dependencies of Ambir,
on the site of an old citv which had been in ruins for some
•r
thousand yeai*s. Walls and forts, and gates and gardens were
allotted out among the amirs^ and injunctions were given for the
completion of the work. So a building {'ifndrat), which might
» " Bijagarh," about seyenty miles N. W. of BurhtnpCir P
^ Four miles N.E. of Jaiptir.
' Or as Bad&6n( (vol. ii. p. 251) writes the name "Mult&n."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBABT. 407
hav^e taken years for its coropletioiiy was finished in twenty days.
Orders were then given for raiyati and all sorts of mechanics to
be collected from all the parganas of that province, to populate
the fortress (hisdr). The land of this place was an ancient
possession of B&i Lon Earan,^ and his son, who was young and
was being brouglit up with the princes, was named Manohar, so
the town was called Manohar-nagar after that child. This child
has now grown up a jclever young man, and composes poetry
under the takhallua (nom de plume) of T&nsani.^
Appearance of a Comet?
At this period, at the time of evening prayer, a comet appeared
in the sky towards the east^ inclining to the north, and con-
tinued very awflil for two hours. The opinion of the astrologers
was, that the effects would not be felt in Hindust&n, but pro-
bably in Ehur&s&n and 'Ir&k. Shortly afterwards, Sh&h Isma'il,
son of Bh&h Tahmasp Safawi, departed this life, and great
troubles arose in Persia.
On arriving at N&maul, the Emperor paid a visit to Shaikh
Niz&m N&mauli. * * From thence he proceeded to Dehli, and
encamped near the Hauz-i Khdsy and paid a visit to the tomb
of his father with due ceremony. Then he visited the tombs of
the holy men who sleep at Dehli and dispensed large charities.
He next halted at the aardi of Bdwali, and here he was waited
upon by Haji Habibu-lla, who had visited Europe, and had
brought with him fine goods and fabrics for His Majesty "^s in-
spection. He started from thence, and passed through the
pargana of P&lam. He passed the night in the house of the
> *< Ruler of S&mbhar."— Bad&dnl. > The celebrated wit and poet.
3 Bad&^nl (toI. ii. p. 240) places the appearance of this comet in the twenty-
second year of the reign. He also records a joke of the time. Sh&h Manstlr, the
diwdn, used to wear a turban with the end hanging down his back ; so he got the
name of " The Comet/' or *' Long-tailed Star.'' Ab(i-1 Fazl likewise places this
comet in the twenty-second year of the reign, or 1577 a.d., and according to
Fergusson, the comet passed its perihelion on the 26th October, 1577 {Fergusson^s
Astronomy, ToL ii. p. 231). Ab(i-1 Fazl enters into a learned discussion upon
comets in general. — Akbar-ndma^ vol. iii. p. 192.
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408 NIZAMIT-D BIN AHHAD.
mukaddam of the village, and in the morning he directed that
the revenae officers, whenever he so rested in the hoase of a
cultivator, should remit the tax and tribute {bdj o khirdj) of his
cultivated land by way of madad-ni d%h^ or help for subsistence.^
* * * When he arrived at the pargana of H&nsi, he went to pay
a visit in the town to Shaikh Jam&l H&nsawf, and made his
offerings and alms. Here a despatch arrived announcing that
MuzaSar Husain Mirza, after flying from Gujar4t, had been
taken prisoner by R&j& 'All Kh&n, the ruler of Ksit and Bur-
h&npur. On the 1st Zi-1 ka'da the camp moved for the Panj4b,
and ^farmdn was sent to Il>&j& ^Ali Kh&n, directing him to send
Muzaffar Husain Mirz& with his (the R&j&'s) son to Court.
[The maulud-ndma or horoscope of His Majesty.]
Twenty-fourth year of tlie Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Thursday, 13th
Muharram, 987» h. (12th March, 1579) * ♦ * [^Hunting, etc."]
The Emperor marched to the town of Bahira, and here intel-
ligence was brought of the approach of Her Highness Maryam
Mak&ni from the capital, and Prince Salim was sent to meet
her. * ♦ • After conferring the government of the Panj&b on
Sa'id Eh&n, the Emperor started on his return homewards, and
on reaching the village of Sult&npdr, appertaining to Khizr&b&d,^
he ordered boats to be collected, so that the rest of the journey
might be performed by water. Muhammad E&im Eh&n, the
Mlr-bahr, collected the vessels^ and on the 3rd Jum&da-s s&ni,
986 H., the Emperor embarked. The camp returned by land.
He reached Dehli, and the boats were moored opposite the tomb
of Ehw&ja Ehizr on the 29th of the month. This being the
time of the 'ara, or anniversary of Ehw&ja Mu'inu-d din, he left
the boats on the 1st Bajab, and set off. Travelling thirty kos
' This 18 the title of a very common Id-hhirdj tenure.
' This passage, and a few more lines of no importanoe, are found in only one oopj.
3 The text has " 986," hnt see note, p. 403, 9uprd,
« *<S&dhaura."— Bad&tfni, vol. ii. p. 254.
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TABAEAT-I AEBAHr. 409
a day, he reached Ajmfr on the eyening of the 6th, which was
the day of the festival, and paid his visit to the tomb. Next
day he started for Fathpur, and travelling fifty ko8 a day, he
arrived there on the evening of the 9th.^ There he spent much
of his time in the building called the '^IbddaUkhdna^ in the
company of learned and holy men, every one of whom he
enriched with gifts of gold and silver. Every Friday he used
to pass the night there, making offerings and dispensing charity.
In those days there was a reservoir in the court-yard of the
palace at Fathpur, twenty gaz long by twenty broad and three
gaz deep. This he caused to be filled with red, white, and
black money (».e. gold, silver, and copper), the whole of which
he gave away to the amirs^ the poor, the holy, and the learned.
The total of this money amounted to twenty krors of tankas^^
and the distribution of it lasted for three years.
In this year Ma'sdm Kh&n, Eoka of Mirzi Hakim, a young
man of courage, who had done, some great things, being offended
with the Mirz&, left him and came to the Court of the Emperor,
who received him with great kindness. He gave him a mamab
of 500, and a jdgir in Bih&r, whither he sent him. When
Ma'sum went there, E&1& Pah&r, one of the highest and bravest
of the A%h&n amirB^^ attacked him ; but he was victorious,
although he received several wounds. The Emperor bestowed
upon him as a recognition a mansdb of 1000, with a horse and
a robe.
In the month of Shaww&l he appointed Mull& Taiyib to the
diwdni of the province of Bih&r and H&jiptir, Purkhottam to be
bakhshi^ Mull£ Majdi amf», and the eunuch Shamshir Kh&n to
the charge of the khdlisa of that province.' In the saime month
> The journey was performed on horseback, with an escort of nine penona. The
distance was 120 kos in two days. — Akbar^ndma, yol. iii p. 214.
* " B&J& Todar Mai collected seventeen krors of ddmt for this purpose." — Akhar^
ndma, toL iii. p. 210.
> Bad&tfni was not pleased with the appointment of these officers. He says they
were low base men, and acted as such, senring neither God nor the king. — Yol. ii.
p. 266.
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410 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
Maksud Jauharl, who went to fetch Mirzd Mazaffar Hosain
from B£j& ^Ali Elh&n of Xair, arrived at Court with the Mirz&
and the Rkj&'a tribute, and presented it to Hia Majesty.
Campaign agaimt Rdnd Kikd.
His Majesty'^s mind was always intent upon clearing the land
of Hinddst&u from the troubles and disturbances created by
infidels and evil men. He sent Shahb&z 'Sh&R IRr-hakhM * *
and several other amim^ against B&n& Eik&, to ravage and
occupy his country. Shahb&z Kh6n accordingly laid the country
waste, and pursued the B&n& into the mountains and jungles.
Upon reaching the fort of Kombalmir, Shahb&z Khan laid siege
to it, and captured it in a few. days. The B&n& made his escape
from the fort by night.
Sultdn £hw&ja, whom His Majesty had appointed Mir-% h^y
now returned from Mecca, and waited upon him with presents —
fabrics and stuffs of Turkey and of Europe, Arab horses,
Abyssinian slaves, holy relics, and curiosities. These His
Majesty accepted with much satisfaction, and he raised Sult&n
Ehw&ja to the mansab of Sadr (chief judge). As it had been
determined to send a leader of the pilgrims every year, £hw&ja
Muhammad Yahya * * was now appointed, and he received
four lacs of rupees for expenses.
At the end of this year, 987, intelligence arrived of the death
of £hdn-jah&n, the ruler of Bengal. His Majesty was much
grieved, and sent a letter of condolence to IsmaMl Kh&n, the
brother of the deceased. Muzaffar Kh&n, who had been ap<
pointed diwdn^ was promoted to be governor of Bengal, Bizwi
Kh&n to be bakhshi, and Hakim Abu-1 Fath and Patar D&s to
discharge jointly the office of diwdn,
Twenty-ffih year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Thursday, the
24th Muharram, 988 h.^ (12th March, 1580).
^ The author has now got the date correct.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 411
The rulers of Eashmir had always been well-wishers and
servants of the Imperial house. His Majesty now intended,
after performing his usual pilgrimage to Ajmir, to pay a visit to
the tomb of Shaikh Farid Shakar-ganj, and to visit the Panj&b.
So he sent MulU Ishki, one of the old servants of the Court,
along with EazI Sadru-d din, to Kashmir. 'All Eh&n, the ruler
of Kashmir, entertained them nobly and respectfully, and exhi-
bited his fidelity and devotion. Along with the two envoys he
sent his own vakil, Muhammad Kasim^ to carry his tribute and
productions of Kashmir as presents to the Emperor — ^saffron,
musk^ paper, shawls, etc« They accordingly brought them to
His Majesty, and reported what they had seen and knew of
'Ali Khan's cordiality and good wishes.
Muzaffar Husain Mirz&^ whom Maksud Jauhari had brought
from E&J& 'Ali Kh&n, was pardoned through His Majesty'^s
clemency, and released from prison.
One day, when His Majesty was taking his dinner, it occurred
to his mind that probably the eyes of some hungry one had
fallen upon the food ; how, therefore, could he eat it while the
hungry were debarred from it? He therefore gave orders that
every day some hungry persons should be fed with some of the
food prepared for himself, and that afterwards he should be
served.
Hakim 'Ali was now sent to Bijagarh along with the envoys
of 'Adil Kh&n Dakhini. The rulers of the Dakhin, every one
of them severally, had been accustomed to send their envoys
every year with tribute and presents to the Imperial Court.
When Khw&ja ^Abdu-lla brought presents and elephants from
^j^dil Khan, the ambassador, and his son Shahi Beg were
presented with robes, one hundred Akbar-sh&hi ashra/iSj one
thousand five hundred and one rupees, and twenty-four tankas.
Mir Niz&m, husband of the sister of Mink Sh&h Bukh, the
ruler of Badakhsh&n, came on a mission to the Imperial Court,
bringing Turki horses bred in Badakhsh&n, fine rubies, several
camels, and other gifts.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
412 NIZAMU-D BfN AHMAD.
The Emperor used to keep every year the annirersaiy of the
Prophet's birth. This year he kept it on the 12th Babfa-l
awwal, and he gave a great entertaininenty at which the saiyidk^
learned men, shaikhs^ and amirs attended. Open table was kept,
and no one in the city was debarred from partaking of the
refreshments. On this occasion it was represented to him that
the Prophet and the four lawful Khalifas^ used themselves to
preach. The 'Abb&side Khalifas also observed this tradition, and
themselves used to speak.^ Sult&ns such as S&hibKir&n Amir
Timdr and Mirz& Ulugh Beg used to follow the examples thus set
them. His Majesty therefore felt it to be his duty to carry into
practice on some Friday the custom observed by the Khalifas
and Im&ms. On Friday, 1st Jum&da-l awwal, he went into the
Maefid'i jdma* of Fathpur, and mounting the pulpit, he opened
his speech with these lines :
The Lord who gave me empire,
Gave me a wise heart and a strong arm,
Guided me in the way of justice and equity,
And drove all but justice from my thoughts.
His praise surpasses understanding t
Great is His power — Great is God I *
To these eloquent lines he briefly added some verses of the
Kurdn^ expressing thanks for mercies and favours ; then he
repeated the fd^iha^ and came down from the pulpit and said
his prayers.
Muzaffar Kh&n, since his appointment to the government of
Bengal, had not sent a single article of the productions of the
country, or any portion of its revenue, to the Imperial treasury ;
but he now sent five lac8 of rupees in cash, various goods and
articles of the country, and elephants and rarities of great value,
^ Ab6 Bakr, 'TJmar, 'TJsman, and 'Ali.
• ^^Khwtba mi khwdndand," This, howeyer) is not the tecbdcal Kkutba^ but
simply a speech.
3 Bad&iini (toI. ii. p. 268) says these yerseS were the produotion of Shaikh Faizit
and that the Emperor, *' stammering, trembling, and in great eonfnsion, got half
through them "with the help of others.*'
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 413
which were graciously accepted. Muhammad Ma*sum K&buli
also sent thirty-nine elephants as tribute.
On a Friday in this month notice was given for all the poor and
needy to assemble on the chaugdn ground. Sult&n Ehw&ja Ealij
Eh&n distributed the alms to them one by one. Nearly a lac of
persons assembled^ and there was such a crowd and crush that
eighty weak women and children were trampled to death. When
the Emperor was informed of this, he ordered that for the future
the people should come a few at a time, and not make a crowd.
Eutbu-d din Atka, a nobleman of high rank, was now ap-
pointed tutor to Prince Salim. In celebration of this appoint-
ment he gave a grand feast, and the young prince honoured him
with his presence. There was a grand assemblage, and Eutbu-d
din made many offerings of elephants and Arab horses, jewels
and cloths. According to the usual custom, Eutbu-d din Mu-
hammad Atka carried the prince upon his back^ and raised his
aspiring head to the pinnacle of grandeur. He made presents
of money and jewels to the prince, and the clamour of congratu-
lations reached the sky.
^Abdu-lla Eh&n Uzbek, ruler of M&war&u-n nahr, had always
kept up a friendly intercourse and community of feeling, and
used to send his envoys to the Imperial Court. His Majesty
now sent Mirz& Ful&d with Ehw&ja Ehatib, a native of Bukh&r&,
as his envoys to ' Abdu-lla Eh&n, bearing a letter ^ fiiU of kind
words, and a great variety of presents. [-4 kgal discmmn.
The usiml journey to AjmirJ] On the 21st Shaww&l he returned
to Fathpur. Mihtar Sa'&dat, whose title is Peshrau Eh&n,
and who had been sent on an embassy to Niz&mu-l Mulk
Dakhini, now returned with the Dakhini envoys, who brought
with them elephants and other tribute.
Twenty-sixth year of the Reign.
Corresponding to 988 h.*
An Imperial order was made abolishing the tamghd (tolls)
» See Inthde Abd-l Fad^ Dafiar IV. » See Table, p. 246.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
414 NIZXMU-D DIN AHMAD.
and the zakdt^ (customs) throughout the empire. Farmdns
enforcing this abolition were issued. These taxes amounted to
as much as the whole revenue of fr&n, and it is clear that no
king would have remitted them without divine guidance.' In
this year Muhammad Ma^sum Kh&n, son of Mu^inu-d din
Ahmad Kh&n Farankhddi, who held the government of Jaun-
pur, came to Court, and was allowed to return to that place.
Mull& Muhammad Yazdi was appointed chief kdni of Jaunpur.
The government of Dehli was given to Muhibb 'All Kh&n, son
of Mir Khalifa.
Affairs of Bengal.
Muzaffar Kh&n, on arriving in Bengal/ set about arranging the
affairs of that province. But his prosperity was on the wane,
and his day was gone by. He was' harsh in his measures, he
offended men with his words, he deprived many amirs of their
jdgirs^ he demanded the ddgh (brand-tax), and brought old
practices up again.
B&b& £h&n £&ksh&l, although he was conciliatory, and begged
that his yd^lr might be left undisturbed, was called upon for the
ddgh^ and received no attention. The pargana of Jalesar, which
was the jdgir of Khiildi Kh&n, was taken away A*om him at the
beginning of the spring harvest, and was added as tankhwdh to
the j'dgir of Sh&h Jam&lu-d din Husain. A sum of money due
from the spring harvest had been received by Kh&ldi Kh&n, and
to recover this Muzaffar Kh&n put him in prison^ and ordered
him to be scourged and bastinadoed.
At this time a/ammn arrived from the Imperial Court, direct-
ing Muzaffar Kh&n to apprehend and put to death a servant of
Mirz& Muhammad Hakim named Roshan Beg, who had left
K&bul and gone into Bengal, and to send his head to Court.
This Boshan Beg was among the K&ksh&ls, and Muzaffar Beg
1 Bad&dni (vol. ii. p. 276) substitates '^Jkya'* for '*zakdt^" and says that the
prodnoe of these taxes amounted to seTeral krora (of ddmt f), Ab<i-1 Fazl calli
them '' bdj (miBprinted t€{f) and tamghd" — Akbar-ndmaf yol. iii. p. 258.
« 'Uaufik na-ydfta:*
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAKf. 415
issued an order for his execution. He also spake some harsh
words about B&b& Kh&n E&ksh&l. The soldiers who were
present, and especially B&b& Eh&n and the E&ksh&Is, trembled
together, and resolved upon mutiny. They shaved their heads,
put on their high caps,^ and broke out into revolt. Crossing
the river, they went to the city of Gaur, celebrated in old times
under the name of Lakhnauti. There they collected men, and
having found property of Muza£Far Eh&n in several places, they
took it or destroyed it. MuzaSar Kh&n collected boats, and
sent Hakim Abti-1 Fath and Patar D&s,^ with an army against
them on the banks of the river.
When the disaffection of the E&ksh&ls was reported to the
Emperor, he sent Vkfarmdn to Muzaffar Kh&n, in which he said
that the K&ksh&ls had long been servants of the throne, and
that it was not right to hurt them ; they were therefore to be
conciliated and encouraged with hopes of the Emperor's favour,
and the matter of their Jdgira was to be settled. The farmdn
arrived at the time when Muzaffar Kh&n was in face of the
insurgents*
Upon the arrival of the farmdn^ B&b& Kh&n and the other
rebels made a show of submission, and sent a message to
Muzaffar Kh&n, asking him to send Rizwl Kh&n and Patar D&s
to arrange terms with them, and to set their minds at ease. He
accordingly sent Rizwi Kh&n, Mir Abu Ish&k, son of Mir
Rafi'u-d din and B&i Patar D&s. B&b& Kh&n put all three
of them in confinement, and so stirred the fire of warfare.
Coincident with this, it so happened that Mull& Taiyib, Pur-
khottam Bakhshi^ and the revenue officials of Bih&r, also entered
upon harsh dealings. They took away ihejdgirB of Muhammad
Ma'sum K&buli, ^Arab Bah&dur, and all the amirs^ and so laid
the foundation of an evil system. Ma'^stim K&buli, who after
this insurrection obtained the cognomen of ^^i, having leagued
1 idkihde Mughidl, <* Mugbal caps."— Bad&(inl, vol. ii. p. 280.
' Bad&<ini (yol. ii. p. 281) observes that Ab<l-1 Fath was fonder of feasts tlian of
war, and Patar l>iA was a mere Hindu clerk, so that no vigorous action could be
expected.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
416 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
with 'Arab Bah&dur and Sufaid Badakhshi, resolved to rebel,
and kill MuII& Taiyib and B&i Parkhottam. Having pat them
to flight, they plundered their dwellings. After a few days,
Parkhottam rallied some loyal sabjects, and crossed the river
Jaasa with the intention of attacking the rebels. Bat the
rebel 'Arab Bah&dur anticipated him, took him unawares, and
killed him.
Upon intelligence of ""Ajsi Ma'^sum's rebellion reaching B&bi
Kh^n K&ksh&l, a correspondence was opened between them, and
when the Eaksh&ls confronted Muza£Far Eii&n, '^i marched to
assist them, and arrived at GhirhL Muzaffar Kti&a then sent
Khwaja Shamsu-d din Muhammad Ehw&fi with a detachment
and some guns to the passes of Garhi, to arrest the progress of
""Asi Ma'sum. But the latter had a strong force ; he- broke
through Garhi, and attached the Khw&ja and defeated him. He
then formed a junction with the K&kshals, and the revolt
gathered strength.
The K&ksh&ls then crossed the river, and advanced against
Muzaffar Kh&n. Wazir Jamil/ one of the old amirs of the
State, along with J&n Muhammad Bihbudi and some others,
deserted Muzaffar Khdn, and joined the insurgents. Muzaffar
Eh&n then too]( shelter in the fort of T&nda, which was
nothing better than four walls. The rebels occupied the town of
Tanda. They took Hakim Abd-1 Fath, Khw&ja Shamsu-d din
and others prisoners, and began to pillage. Hakim Abu4 Fath
with the Ehw&ja and B&i Patar Das effected their escape by
artifice, and fled on foot. By the help of the sMtminMrs^ they
managed to reach H&jipur. The rebels made themselves masters
of the fort of Tdnda, brought Muzaffar Kh&n out of his house
upon a solemn assurance (of safety), and put him to death.
They took possession of his property and effects, and all the
country of Bengal and Bih&r fell into their hands. Nearly
30,000 horsemen assembled round the rebels. The Emperor
some time before this had taken Mirzd Sharafii-d din Husain
1 « Wazlr Eh&n Jamil Beg."— Bad&Oni.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKi:T.I AKBABf. 417
out of prison, and sent him to Bengal to Muzaffar Kh&n.^ The
rebels now released him from confinement, and placed him at
their head. So the revolt increased.
Upon the facts being communicated to the Emperor, he sent
B&J& Todar Mai * * and other amirs to repress it. Farmdna
were sent to Muhammad Ma'stim Farankhudi, governor of
Jaunpur, and Sam&nji Kh&n and the jdgirddrs of that country,
directing them to place themselves under the command of Todar
Mai, and render every assistance to quash the rebellion.
While the Imperial army was on the march, Sh&ham Kh&n
Jal&ir fought with Saiyid Badakhshi and killed him. When
the army reached Jaunpur, Muhammad Ma'sum joined Todar
Mai with 3000 horsemen fully armed, and marched on with
him. But Muhammad Ma'sum was a weak-minded man, his
dignity and the strength of his army had turned his brain, and
he began to show many little actions savouring of disaffection,
and to utter expressions indicative of disloyalty. B&j£ Todar
Mai, like a prudent and experienced man, temporized with him,
and did all he could to reassure and conciliate him.
When the Imperial army reached Mongir, 'Aai E&buli and the
K&ksh&ls, and Mirzd 8harafu-d din Husain with 30,000 horse,
and 500 elephants, and with war-boats and artillery, in battle
order, advanced to meet the Imperial army. IUj& Todar Mai
had no confidence in the (cohesion of the) adventurers composing
the enemy's army, and deeming it inexpedient to fight, he oc-
cupied the fort of Mongir, and throwing up other fortifications
around it, he kept that position. Every day combats occurred
between the men of the outposts. When these proceedings were
reported to the Emperor, he on one occasion sent Zainu-d din
Eambu by ddk^chauki with 2k lac oi rupees for the expenditure
of the army. Some days after, he sent the same amount by the
hands of Daryd Eh&n dh-ddr^ and so on by different persons.
At different times he sent a great deal of money.
At this time Hum&yun Farmuli and Tarkh&n Diwana deserted
^ To be kept in cnBtody.^^Ardar-MJma.
TOL. T. 27
Digitized by VjOOQIC
418 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
the Imperial army and joined the insurgents. For four months
the loyal forces and the insurgents &eed each other, but at length
some loyal zaminddrs of the vicinity cnt off the supplies from
the insurgents, and great scarcity prevailed among them. B&b&
Khdn Kdksh&l fell sick at Tanda and died. Jabb&ri, son of
Majndn Kh&n K&ksh&l, who was the main prop of the rabble,
being informed of the sinking condition of B&b4 Eh&n, wanted
to go to T^da. "^^i [Ma'sum], not being able to maintain his
ground, withdrew to Bihdr. 'Arab Bah&dnr made a rapid march
to Patna, seized upon the city, and appropriated the treasure.
Bih&r Eh&n Eh&ssa-khaiP went into the fort of Patna, and held
out. Br&ja Todar Mai and his supporters sent Muhammad
Ma'sum Farankhudi with a detachment to the relief of Patna.
On hearing of his approach, 'Arab Bah&dur raised the siege, and
went off towards Gajpati, one of the chief zaminddrs of that
country.
The R&J& and S4dik Kh&n and * * ♦ and the other amirs
marched to Bih&r after 'Ajsi Ma'sum, who sought an opportunity
to make a night attack upon S&dik Eh&n''s camp. But S&dik
"Khkii was a wary commander, and on that night he and his
men were prepared. J&n Beg and Ulfigh Kh&n Habshi were
in command of his advanced force, and the enemy attacking
them unawares, J&n Beg was killed and Ultigh Kh4n fell back.
S&dik Kh&n had to resist a sharp attack, but the Emperor^s
good fortune aided him, and he defeated Ma'sdm, who went off
to Bengal in sorry plight. ITow, Garhi fell into the hands of
the royal troops.
Among the strange occurrences of the time was this : A letter
was sent by the hands of Hasan tatcdchi-bdshi to Shuj&'at Kh&n,
ruler of M&lwa, summoning him to Court. Accordingly, he and
his son Kiy&m Kh&n set off from S&rangpur to attend upon His
Majesty. His attendants were seized with the desire to rebel,
so they killed both him and his son, and then dispersed, each
one taking his own way. When the Emperor heard this, he
* " Commonly known as Saiyid 'Arif."— Bad&dnC, vol. ii. p. 283.
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TABAKAT-I AKBAET. 419
sent Sharif Kh&n Atka to be govemor of M&lwa, aiid called the
young surviving children of Shuj&'at Kh&n to Court.
In consequence of the state of affairs in Bengal, 'Azam Khan
who had been living for some time in retirement at Agra, was
again received into favour, and he was sent with 5000 horse to
assume the government of Bih&r.^ For greater security, Sh4h-
b&z Kh&n Kambu, who was engaged against R&n& Kik&, and
had nearly driven the R&n& from the country, was summoned
and sent with an army to the support of the forces in Bengal.
When Sh&hb&z Khfin came near to Hdjipur, where 'Arab
Bahadur had taken refage with Il>&j& Gajpati, he marched to
attack him. For one month he carried on operations against
him, clearing away the jungle, until at length he drove off 'Arab
Bahfidar, and made the B.&J& succumb.
[TAe Emperor pays a visit to Sharif Khdn Atka, Hakimu-l
Mulk Oildni appointed " Leader of the Pilgrimage"']
A despatch now arrived from B&j& Todar Mai, stating that
he had kept Muhammad Ma'sum Farankhudi along with him
by conciliatory treatment and all kinds of expedients. That
Khwdja Mansur [the diwdn] had written sharp letters to him,
claiming a good deal of money due from him. He [the diwdn']
had also written letters to Tarsun Muhammad Kh&n, one of the
great amirs and commander of an army, holding out threats to
him, at a time when encouragement was necessary. The sharp
practice of the diwdn having been repeatedly mentioned to His
Majesty, he removed him from office, and placed him in charge
of Sh&h Kuli Kh&n. An order was promulgated appointing
Wazir Kh&n to be ditvdn in chief instead of him, and K&zi 'AH,
son of Kutbu-d din Baghd&di, was to assist him in deciding
important questions.
A great natural curiosity was brought to the notice of the
Emperor at this time. It was a man bom without ears or any
1 The MSS. agree in this, but Bad&fin£ (toI. ii. p. 285) says "Bengal." Abtl-l
Fazl seems more accurate in saying he was appointed to the command in the Eastern
provinces. — Akbar'tidma, vol. iii. p. 276.
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420 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
orifice of the ears, who yet heard all that was spoken, just like
people with ears. His Majesty was greatly interested in the
man, and settled a pension npon him.
[^Prince Bdniydl makes the usual pilgrimage to JJmfr instead of
the Emperor.']
"R&jii Todar Mai, Tarsun Muhammad Kh&n, and the other
amirs took up their quarters in H&jip6r during the rainy season,
and Ma'sum Farankhudi, with their permission, went to Jaun-
pur, which was his j'dgir. There he began to show signs of
disaffection. His Majesty therefore sent Peshrau Kh&n, ddrogha
of the fardsh'khdna^ to set him at ease ; he also gave him the
country of Oudh instead of Jaunpur, and bestowed the' latter
upon Tarsun Khdn. Ma'sum spoke dutiful words to Peshrau
Kh^, and did not show his disafiPection ; but as Oudh was near,
he went there.
Niyabat Kh&n, son of Hashim Kh&n Naishapdri, who had
grown up in the nurture of the Imperial Court, broke out in
rebellion in his jdgir of Jausa and Payig (Allah&b&d), and
attacked the fort of Earra, which was the jdgir of Isma'il Euli
Eh&n. Ily&s Kh&n, who was shikkddr of that place for Isma'il
Kuli, fought with him and was killed. He then invested the
fort of Garha, and began to pillage. This being reported to
His Majesty, he sent Ism&'il Euli Eh&n, * * and several other
amirs to repress him. He also sent E&jd Birbal and Sh&h
Euli Eh&n Mahram to excite the hopes of Ma^sum Eh&n
Farankhudi, and bring him to Court.
When Wazir Eh&n had departed, Ehw&ja Mansur was released
from confinement, and again appointed to the office of diwdn.
As soon as Niyabat heard of the approach of the royal army,
he raised the siege of Earra, and went towards £[antal, one of
the dependencies of Patna. The amirs followed him, crossed
over the river, and came up with him. Niy&bat Eh&n attacked
them, and a hard fight ensued, but at last he was defeated and
went off to Ma'sum Ehan.
At this time, also, 'Arab Bah&dur fled before Sh&hb&z Eh&n,
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TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 421
and took refuge with Ma'sum.* Sh&hbaz Kh&n, in pursuit of
him, went to Jaunpdr, and from thence to Oudh against Ma^sum.
But Ma^sdm advanced to meet him, defeated him, and put him
to flight. In one day Sh&hb&z Kh&n travelled forty kos to
Jaunpur. Tarsun Muhammad Kh&n, who commanded the right
wing of Sh&hb&z Kfadn'^s force, had been hidden by the jungle,
and when Ma'stim'^s army was disordered, this force came up
and defeated it. When Sh&hbaz Ehan was informed of this,
he returned immediately, joined his right wing, and rallying his
forces, pursued the enemy. Ma'sum fought again in the vicinity
of the city of Oudh, and was again defeated. His mother and
sisters, wives and children, property and troops were taken. He
himself fled to the Siwalik hills. This happened in the month
of Zi-1 hijja, in the year 988 • H.
Twentp'SeventA year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Sunday, 15th
Safar, 989.»
In the beginning of this year intelligence arrived that Mirza
Muhammad Hakim, allured by the inducements held out in
letters sent to him by ^Asi Ma'sdm E&buli and Ma'sum Faran-
khddi, and urged on by his maternal uncle Faridun, had set out
from K&bul with the object of conquering Hindustan. He sent
his servant Sh&dm&n over the Indus (in advance), but Eunwar
M&n Singh^ son of Il>&j& Bhagw&n D&s, attacked him and killed
him.* On hearing of this, the Mirz& crossed the river, and en-
camped in the pargana of Saiyidptir.
The Emperor assembled his forces, and having advanced to all
the soldiers eight months' pay out of the treasury, he marched
towards the Panj&b. Prince D&niyal remained at Fathpur, and
^ Ma's6ixL Kh&n had an immense stock of the materials of war, ** and there were
thirtj or forty banners, tughs and kettle-drams in his army." — Bad&6ni, vol. ii.
p. 290.
' Should be 989. 3 This should be 990 (1 1th March, 1582).
* A force sent in advance of this had been defeated by ^[irz& Yiksuf Kh&n,
goTemor of the Panj&b. — Akbar-ndma, vol. iii. p. 310.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
422 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
Sultan Khwaja and Shaikh Ibr&him were there left in charge of
affairs. Upon the Emperor's reaching the sardi of B&d, fifteen
ko8 from Fathpur, he received intelligence of the victory of
Sh&hbaz Kh&n over Ma'sum Farankhtidi. Deeming tliis an
auspicious omen, he continued his march.
When Kunwar M&n Singh defeated Sh&dm4n, he obtained
from Shadman's portfolio three letters from Mirz& Muhammad
Hakim : one to Hakimu-1 Mulk, one to Ehw&ja Sh&h M ansur,
and one to Muhammad K&sim Kh&n Mlr-bahr; all in answer to
letters of invitation and encouragement. Kunwar M4n Singh
sent these letters to the Emperor, who ascertained the contents,
but kept the fact concealed.
After the Emperor marched from Dehli, MirK& Muhammad
Ilakim advanced to Lahore, and encamped in the garden of
Mahdi K&sim Kh&n. Kunwar M&n Singh, Sa'id Kh&n, and
B4j& Bhagw&n D&s had gone into the fortress. On the Empe-
ror'^s reaching P&nipat, Malik S&oi K&bull, ditcdn of Mirz&
Muhammad Hakim/ who had the title of Wazir Kh&n, deserted
the Mirzd, and came to the Imperial camp. He alighted at the
tent of Khw&ja Sh4h Mansur, and made him the channel for
offering his services to the Emperor. When Khwaja Sh&h
Mansur announced his arrival, the Emperor's suspicions were
aroused, and he thought that the diwdn'a arriving at the time
when his master was invading Hindust&n must have some policy
in it. He was already suspicious of Mansur, and his doubts
were now confirmed. So he dismissed Mansur, and showed him
the Mirz&'s letters. Mansur asseverated (his innocence), but it
was of no use.
The Emperor proceeded to Sh&h&b&d, and Malik 'Ali brought
him a letter to the following effect : "When my scouts were coming
from the ford of Ludi&n&, which is under my charge, and reached
the sardi of Sirhind, they found a footman with swollen feet.
This footman said to them, ^ I belong to Sharaf Beg, the servant of
Khw&ja Sb&h Mansur. He is the Khwdja^s ahikkddr in hhjdgir
of Firozpur, thirty kos from Lahore. These letters are to be
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-l AKBABf. 423
delivered to the Khw&ja ; as my feet are in a bad state, do you
convey the letters quickly to him.' These letters my men have
brought to me/' When the secretary opened them, one was a
letter from Sharaf Be^ to Khw&ja Mansur, about the affairs of
Firozpur, and the other was a letter from one person to another
person, and of the following purport : " I met Faridun Kh4n,
and he carried tne to wait upon Muhammad Hakim Badsh&h.
Although he had sent his revenue collectors into all the parganaa
of this quarter, he has not sent any to ours, but has held us
exempt." On hearing and considering these letters, it appeared
to His Majesty that Sharaf Beg had written one of them to
Khw&ja Mansur, and that the other was certainly connected
with the coming of Mirza Muhammad Hakim's diwdny Malik
S&ni, to Khw4ja Mansdr. Many of the amrs and officers of
State were on bad terms with the Khw&ja, and these exerted
their influence to secure his death. So the Emperor gave the
order for his execution, and he was hanged next morning.
Three days afterwards, intelligence came in that Mirz& Mu-
hammad Hakim, having been informed of the Emperor's march
towards the Panj&b, had passed the river of Lahore, and gone off
to Kabul. The Emperor advanced from Sirhind to Kal&nor,^
and from thence to New Rohtds. There he received good news,
and hunting as he went along, he reached the Indus. In the
month of Babi'u-s s&ni, he ordered a fort to be built on the banks
of the Indus, which is called Sind-s&gar, and he called it Atak
Banaras.' Boats were scarce, so he ordered the amirs and
soldiers to search for and produce some. He assigned their respec-
tive posts to the various amirs. Kunwar Man Singh, with Shaikh
Jamdl Bakhtiy&r and M4dhu Singh his brother * * and others
were sent over the river towards Parshor (Peshdwar). When
they took possession of that city, the Emperor sent Prince
■ According to Abii-1 Fazl, he paid a visit to Nagarkot before reaching Eal&nor. ->
AJcbar-ndma, Tol. iil p. 326.
* Bad&6ni (toI. ii p. 293} says this was " in contradistinctioa to Eatak Bankras/'
at the other extremity of the empire.
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424 NIZAMU-D DFN AHMAD.
Mar&d along with Ealij Kh&n, B&I Singh, Mirz& Yiisnf, and
other amin^ to effect the conquest of K&bul.
At this time Ehw&ja Abd-1 Fazl and * * came as envoys
from Mirzd Muhammad Hakim, to beg pardon for his ofiencAs.
The Emperor sent H&ji Habiba-lla along with them to K&bul,
promising him forgiveness, on condition that he repented of the
past, would bind himself bj oath (for the future), and would
send his sister to the Imperial Court. Prince Mur&d passed
through the Khaibar Pass, and on the 15th Jum&da-s s&ni, the
Emperor crossed over the river Sind-s&gar (Indus), and there
encamped.
Here he sent the least of his servants, Niz&mu-d din Ahmad,
the author of this work, to proceed rapidly in advance of
Prince Murdd, and open communications with the amkrs who
had gone on first, and to ascertain whether they could get to
Kdbul without the Emperor, or if they needed his presence ; by
what road he ought to proceed ; and whether he should come
with all his army or travel express (jarida). In one night and
day I reached JaUl&b&d, a distance of seventy-five koSj and
delivered my message to the Prince. He was determined upon
proceeding to E&bul, and thought it advisable to send me back
speedily to the Emperor. He also sent along with me H&ji
Habibu-Ua, who had come from E&bul to Jal&l&b&d, and I was
to report that Mirzd Muhammad Hakim was sincerely repentant
of the past, that he had taken oaths, and that he was willing to
send his sister, but that Khw&ja Husain, her husband, had carried
her off to Badakhsh&n. When I and H&ji Habibu-lla joined
His Majesty, he on the following day marched to Pershor
(Peshdwar). There he lefk Prince Salim in camp with B&ja
Bhagwdn D4s, Sa'id Khdn [etc.], and went on with speed,
travelling about twenty kos a day. When Prince Mur&d came
to within seven kos of K&bul, Mirzd Muhammad Hakim issued
forth to the village of Khurd-k&bul, and attacked him; but
he was defeated and put to flight. The victorious Prince then
entered Kabul.
Digitized by CjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 425
On the night before this action Faridun, the ancle of Mirzfi
Hakim, attacked the rear of the Prince'^s amiy, killed a good
many men, and carried off considerable spoil. This day the
Emperor advanced and encamped at Surkh&b, fifteen kos from
the army of the Prince. When the rear of the Prince's array
was attacked and plundered, it so happened that H&ji Muhammad
Ahadi, who had gone on in advance as messenger (ddk-chauki)
to the Prince, arrived upon the spot, and beheld the rout. He
turned back and reported the disaster, which annoyed the
Emperor. But notwithstanding this news, next day the Emperor
went on a stage, and then received accounts of the victory that
had been gained, and for which he offered up his thanksgiving.
On Friday, 10th Baj&b, he entered E&bul, and remained there
for twenty days visiting the gardens. Here he was informed
that Mirz& Muhammad Hakim intended to abandon his country,
and take refuge with the Uzbeks. Deeming this a disgrace and
shame, he sent Latif Khw&ja to Mirzd Muhammad Hakim, who
was at Ghorband, to tell him that his offences were forgiven.
The Mirz&, having in the presence of Latif Ehw&ja made a
promise and a vow of fidelity, executed an engagement, and sent
it by 'All Muhammad Asp along with Latif Khw&ja to the
Emperor.
His Majesty then turned homewards to Hinddst&n, after con-
ferring E&bul upon Mirzi Muhammad Hakim. Leaving the
army, he went on quickly to Jal&l&b&d, where there was a large
encampment. Prince Salim, and the nobles who were with him,
hastened forth to meet His Majesty, and to congratulate him
on his victory. Ehw&jagi Muhammad Husain, the brother of
E&sim Kh&n Mir-bahr^ who was one of Mirz& Muhammad
Hakim'^s nobles, came to proffer his services to the Emperor,
and was admitted among the number of his friends.
From Jal&l&b&d he sent a detachment to attack the hills of
the Eator infidels. Travelling by regular stages, he reached the
banks of the Sind-s&gar (Indus).^ Muhammad E&sim Eh&n,
1 " On the 12th Sha'b&n,"-Bad&<iiil, toI. ii. p. 296.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
426 KIZAMU-D BIN AHMAD.
yfho had been left behind to make a bridge, had constracied one
of boats. The journey to E&bul had been performed in one
month. In one day he [and hia escort] 'crossed the river and
went on to L&hore, where he arrived on the last day of Bamaz&n.
He again entrosted the government of the Panj&b to Sa'id Eh&n,
B&J& Bhagw&n D&s, and Kunwar M&n Singh, and went on his
way hunting to Fathpur. At P&nipat Sh&hb&z Kh&n came to
wait upon him. On the 25th Shaww&l he arrived at Dehli.
Prince D&niy&l and the amirs who had remained at Fathpur, and
Her Highness Maryam Mak&nl came forth to meet him, and on
the 5th Zi-I ka'da he arrived there.
While the Emperor was engaged in the K&bul campaign,
Bahddur 'All, son of Saiyid Badakhshi entered the country of
Tirhut, and gave himself the title of Bah&dur Sh4h;^ but he
was taken prisoner and killed by the men of Xhan-i '^azam.
Ma'sum Kh&n Farankhudi, being in great distress and anxiety
in the Siw&lik hills, begged forgiveness for his offences through
Kh&u-i ^azam ; and in consequence of the £h&n''s intercession he
was pardoned. Then he waited upon Kh&n-i 'azam in humble
guise, and was afterwards admitted to an interview with the
Emperor at Fathpur.*
When the Emperor was waited upon at X4bul by the confi-
dential servants of Mirz4 Muhammad Hakim, he made inquiry
into the case of Khw&ja Sh&h Mansur, and it appeared that
Karmu-Ua, brother of Sh&hbaz, had colluded with others to
concoct letters, and that he had forged the last letter on the
evidence of which Khwdja Mansur was executed. After this
was discovered, the Emperor often regretted the execution of
the Ehw&ja. He now remained for some time at Fathpur,
1 According to Bad&6ai (vol. ii. p. 298}| he cauBed the khmtba to be read and
coins to be struck in his name.
3 He was soon afterwards murdered, as he was returning home from the palace.
Niy&bat was also ** pardoned for the sake of his uncle Shah&bu-d din Ahmad Kh&n,
ruler of M&lwa; but he was sent to the fort of Bantambhor, and confined. There
he was guilty of things which cannot be mentioned, and stirred up a great mutiny
among the prisoners : so iu 998 he was condemned and executed." — Bad&6nl, toI. ii.
p. 299.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 427
administering jastice, dispensing charity, and arranging pnblio
business.
On the 19th Muharram^ 990 h., Kh&n-i 'azam, governor of
H&jiptir and Patna, came to wait upon the Emperor, and to
give an account of the affairs of Bengal. After staying several
days, he was sent back to Bengal, and several nobles and soldiers
who had been to E&bul were sent with him.
Twenty^eighth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Tuesday, 27th
Safar, 991 (11th March, 1583 a.d.).
\A festival of eighteen daya^ duration at the Nau-rozJ]
Sh&ham Ehin Jalesar from Bengal, and B&j4 Bhagw&n Das
from Lahore, came to wait upon His Majesty. It has been
mentioned in a previous page how Kh&n-i 'azam came with a
number of jdgirddrs from Bengal to wait upon the Emperor,
leaving the Buba empty. Evil-minded men took advantage of
their absence, and coming out of every corner began to excite
disturbances. A servant of Ma^sum K&buli, by name Khabita,
in concert with Tarkh&n Diw&na and Surkh Badakhshi, raised
commotions in Bih&r. Muhammad Sadik Kh&n, with Muhibb
'Ali £h&D, defeated him and killed him.
[Return of Oulbadan Begam and SaUma SuUdn Begam from
Mecca. Prince Salim sent to Ajmir to meet them^ and to visit the
shrine ofMu'inu-d tflw.]
Muhammad S&dik Kh4n came from Bihdr, and was well
received, but he was soon sent to assist Kh&n-i 'azam in suppress-
ing the revolt of 'Ksi Kdbuli. Sh&h Kuli Khdn and other
amirs who had been on the K&bul campaign were sent with him.
About this time Mir Abti Tur&b and 'Itim&d Kh&n, who had
visited the holy temple together, came to Court, and had an
interview with His Majesty. Abu Tur&b had brought a stone
upon which there was said to be an impression of the Prophet's
foot. His Majesty went out four kos to receive this stone with
every mark of honour. An order was issued that all the amirs
Digitized by VjOOQIC
428 NIZAMXJ-D DtN AHMAD.
in turn should carrjr it on their backs a few steps. So each one
carried it a little way, and brought it into the city. [^Weighing
of Prince Sali/n against gold and silver.'] The traitor, Nur
Muhammad by name, was brought a prisoner from Tirhdt, and
suffered punishment in the market.^
Tmnty-^inth year of the Reign.
Agreeing with 991* H.
[Festival of the new year."]
The news from Bengal was, that Eh&n-i 'azam had occupied
T&nda, that Xh&ld( Eh&n, Jabb&r Burdi, and Mirzd Beg
K&ksh&l had separated from 'Asi K&buH, and had come to
Kh&n-i 'azam, and that 'Ais( had sought refuge with certain
zaminddrs. All the parts of Bengal that were in the possession
of the rebels now came again under the authority of the Im-
perial officers.
As 'Itim&d Kh&n had held the government of Ghijar&t for
several years, he was better acquainted with the prosperous
management of the country than others could be, and if the
government were confirmed to him it might be the means of
exciting the emulation of rulers in other countries. For this
reason he was appointed governor of Gujar&t. Mir Abu Tur&b
was appointed amin^ Khw&ja Abd-1 Kasim, brother of Mull&
^Abdu-l K&dir was appointed diwdn, and the humble servant
Niz&mu-d din Ahmad, the author of this work, was appointed
baklkshi. Muhammad Husain Shaikh and * * * were made/cf^lr-
ddrs of Gujar&t.
Amir Fathu-lla, one of the saiyids of Shir&z, a very wise and
learned man, had gone from Shir&z to 'Adil Kh&n in the Dakhin,
and had there held high office. On the 22nd Babi'u-s s&nl he
came to visit the Emperor at Fathpdr. Ehin-kh&n&n and
^ He was a Tarkh&n, and had been a rebel in Bengal. Haring attacked a caravan
of salt-merchants, they made a breastwork of their bags, and beat him off. He was
afterwards taken near Gaya. — Akbar-ndmay Yol. iii. p. 388.
> Should be 992 (1684 A.D.).
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEAT-I AKBASr. 429
Hakim Abu-1 Fath were sent forth to meet him, and to bring
him in with due honour. He was appointed to the exalted
office of Sadr.
The suppression and dispersion of the rebels in Bengal was
reported to the Emperor. It was known that '^i E&buli was
in the country of 'Aisi, and Kh&n-i 'azam was desirous of
returning home. For these reasons the Emperor ordered Sb&h-
b&z Kh&n to proceed to Bengal, to allot the whole of that sarkdr
mjdgirs to the soldiers, and to do his best to exterminate *KA
K4buli. On the 17th Jumada-s s&ni, he started to assume his
duties.
In this year, an order was given for the translation into
Persian of the Mahd-bhdrat, which is the chief book of history
of the Brahmans. The translation was completed, and received
the name of JRazm^ndma (Book of War).
Information was now brought that Kh&n-i ""azam had sent
Shaikh Farid to make peace with Katld Afgh&n (in Orissa).
When the Shaikh reached his dwelling, and had an interview
with him, Katlti was very humble. Bah&dur Gauriya, one of the
zamitiddrs of Bengal, and a high officer in the army of Katlu,
came to see the Shaikh, who then travelled on under the eyes of
the zaminddra and the servants of Katld. Bah&dur, in a hostile
manner, blocked up the road by which the Shaikh was returning,
and attacked him. Many of his men were killed, but the Shaikh
escaped without injury.
Burhanu-1 Mulk, brother of Murtaza Niz&mu-l Mulk, ruler of
the Dakhin, fled from his brother to Kutbu-d din Kh&n,^ and by
command he came from thence to wait upon the Emperor in the
month of Bajab. But before this, a persoil calling himself
Burh&nu-l Mulk had waited upon the Emperor, and had obtained
^jdgir. Now that the real man had come, and the imposture
was displayed, the impostor fled and hid himself; but he was
discovered after the lapse of a week among someyo^i^, and was
cast into prison.
1 << In M&lwa."— Bad&iinS, vol. ii. p. 824.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
430 NIZAMTT-D DIN AHMAD.
An order was given to 'Itim&d Kh&n to take away the country
of Sirohi from Sarm&n Deori, and to give it to Jagm&l his
brother, who was an adherent of the Imperial throne: 1000 mohurs
{muhrfi) was sent in charge of the writer of this work towards
payment of the expenses. When 'Itim&d Kh&n arrived at Jalor,
the author, Muhammad Ma*sum Bakhari, Eambar Beg I'shang
Xkk^ Zainu-d din Kambu, and Pahlaw&n 'Ali Sistani, who was
appointed kotwal of Ahmad&b&d, joined ^Itimad Kh&n. Muham-
mad Husain Shaikh and ^^YevdXjdgirddra of Gujar&t remained
behind. After 'Itim&d Kh&n arrived at J&Ior, he proceeded to
Sirohi, and having removed Sarm&n Deori, he installed Jagm&l,
whom he left there with Aghzan Kh&n, Mahrndd J&lori, Bij&d
Deora, B&i Singh, son of Chandar Sen, son of R&i M&I Deo.
Then he proceeded towards Ahmadab&d, and on approaching the
city, Shah&bu-d din Ahmad Kh&n came out and posted himself
in 'Usmanpur, one of the suburbs. On the 12th Sha'b&n, "Itim&d
Kh&n went into the city. Two days afterwards it was discovered
that '^bid Badakhshi * * and a large party of the servants of
Shah&bu-d din Kh&n had left him, and gone off to K&thiw&r, to
invite Muzaffar Gujar&ti,^ who was there living in the retirement
to which he had been driven by the Imperial arms ; their object
being to promote a revolt.
'Itim&d Kh&n thought it desirable to have a conference with
Shah&bu-d din upon the subject ; so he sent me, the author of
this work, to him. When I saw him, he told me that this band
of conspirators had a design against his life, and that they had
for a long time been preparing this plot. Now that they had
torn the veil from their designs, they would receive no encourage-
ment or help from him. When I reported the state of the case
to 'Itim&d Kh&n, he thought it expedient to conciliate the con-
spirators ; so he sent me and two other persons to appease them.
But they rejected our overtures, and continued their journey,
1 <* Who had fled from the Imperial Court, and had sought refuge with his mother's
relations." — Bad&dnl, toI. ii. p. 327. Ah(i-1 Fazl says he was really an ohscnre
individual named Tannti, who took the name of Muzaffar, and called himself son
of Sult&n MahmtSd of Gujar&t.-^^^^ar-nama, toL iii. p. 404.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBATir. 431
Shah4bu-d din removed and went to Kari, twenty kos from
Ahmaddb&d. We now sent several letters to Shah&bu-d din,
urging hibfi to delay his departure for a few days ; but making
no stay, he went on his way.^
On the 27th Sha'^ban, the intelligence arrived that the rebels
had come to Dulaka,' bringing with them Muzaffar and some
K&thiw&r people.
Kambar Beg fshang Kk& now came in from Shah&bu-d din,
reporting that he had promised to stay at Kari. 'Itimdd Khdn,
Mir Abu Turdb, and I, therefore went forth to see Shahdbu-d
din, to moUiiy him and bring him back with us. Towards the
close of day, 'Itim&d Kh&n set oiF for Kari. It had been urged
upon him that it was not right for the ruler of a city to leave it
when the enemy was at a distance of only twelve ko8. But it was
of no avail. He left his own son with Amir Ma'sum Bakhari and
* * * and my son, and started. When he and I reached Kari,
we talked with Shah&bu-d din, and we reconciled him, upon our
promise that the parganas which he had for a long time held
in jdgir should be relinquished to him, and that he should be
paid a subsidy of two lacs of rupees. In fact, all he asked was
conceded. Towards close of day, ^Itim&d Kh&n and he set out
from Kari, to return to Ahmadab&d. On the same day that
'Itim&d Kh&n went to Kari, MuzaiFar Gujar&ti came to Ahmad-
&b&d« The men of the city gave him (access to) the fort,
and as part of the wall was broken down, he made> his way in
immediately.
At midnight, when ['Itim&d Khdn and] Shah&bu-d din were
ten koB from Ahmad&b&d, they were met by Mir Ma'sum Bakhari
and Zainu-d din Kambu, who had come out of the city and
brought the news. They alighted, and after consultation de-
cided that as the enemy had gained only one day, he had had no
time to strengthen himself, and that we must get into the city as
^ The author's words are explicit, though they seem to be inconsistent with what
follows.
» "Twelve kot from Ahmad&b&d."— Bad&dni, toI. ii. p. 327.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
432 NIZAMIT-D DfN AHMAD.
he had done. So we went on to the city, and in the morning
arrived at 'Usmdnpiir, which is on the side of the river near the
City. Muzaffar G-ojar&ti came forth, and drew ap hia forces on
the sandy bank of the river. Shah&bu-d din was qaite helpless,
because his men were not trustworthy, and many of them ran off.
I did all I could with a few men, but without effect. My son,
who had been left in the city in charge of the fort, was plundered
of everything. Shah&bu-d din Ahmad Kh&n and 'Itim&d Kh&n
took to flight, and went to Nahrwdla, better known as Pattan,
forty-five ko8 from Ahmad4b&d. I, the author, wrote a report
of the occurrences to the Emperor.
Three days afterwards Muhammad Husain Shaikh * * and
other jdgirddrs of Gujar&t came to Pattan, and having set the
fort in order, prepared to hold out. Muzaffar Gujar&ti gave
away jdgirs and titles to the leading rebels, and busied himself
in collecting forces. Sher Kh&n Fuladi had been governor of
Pattan for many years, but had (since) lived for some years in
adversity in the country of Surath. He joined Muzaffar Gujar&ti,
who sent him with four thousand horse towards Pattan. When
Sher Kh&n arrived at Kari, he sent forward his men to the
town of Jut&na, twenty kos from Pattan.^ I attacked them and
defeated them, and left Mir Muhibbu-Ua * * and a detachment
of soldiers at that place. Zainu-d din Kambu was sent to
Kutbu-d din, governor of Broach and Baroda, desiring him to
advance froip that side against Ahmad&b&d, so that the enemy
might be attacked on two sides and overpowered. Zainu-d din
went to Kutbu-d din, and brought him to Baroda. When
Muzaffar was informed of his arrival there, he led a large force to
attack him, and Kutbu-d din, having fought in an unsoldier-like
way, was defeated, and had to take refuge in the fort of Baroda.
Many of his men and officers joined Muzaffar.
Sher Kh&n Ful&di now advanced as far as the town of
Mas&na,' fifteen kos from Pattan, and great consternation fell
^ Soath of Pattan, and about twelre miles north of Earl.
' <' Mysana " in the maps. About twenty miles north of Kazf.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 433
upon the garrison, so much so that they were on the point of
abandoning Pattan, and going off to J41or. I resolved at all
hazards to fight, and went to encounter Sher Eh&n. Shah&bu-d
din Ahmad Kh&n and 'Itimdd Ehan stopped in Pattan,^ the
other amirs joined me. When we reached Mas&na, we found
that Sher Eh&n had drawn up his forces, and he advanced to
attack us with five thousand horse, while we did not exceed
two thousand. Sher Khka was defeated, and went off to
Ahmad&b&d. Many of his men were killed, and a large booty
fell into our hands. I strenuously urged that we should advance
against Ahmad&b&d,^ but the amirs who were with me would
not agree.
When we reached Kari, we remained there, awaiting the arrival
of the soldiers who had been sent to Pattan with the spoils of our
victory. We waited twelve days, and during that time several
persons were sent to Pattan to collect men. We now heard that
Muzaffar Gujar4ti had bombarded the fort of Baroda, and that
Kutbu-d din, having received a promise (of safe conduct), had sent
Zainu-d din Kambu out (to treat). Muzaffar, regardless of his
pledge, put Zainu-d din to death. Kutbu-d din, although the
perfidy and vow-breaking of Muzaffar were manifest, was so
demented, so blinded by fate, that he trusted to the promise of
that promise-breaker, and went out to him.' Then, at the instiga-
tion of Tarw&ri, zaminddr of Pipla, he was put to death. Upon
hearing of this, I, and the men who were with me at Kari,
returned to Pattan.
From Baroda Muzaffar went to Broach, and the officers of
Kutbu-d din surrendered the fortress. He obtained tliere fourteen
lacs of rupees which were in the royal treasury at Kambay, and
had been conveyed to Broach by Khwaja 'Imadu-d din Husain.
^ These two nobles " had determined to fly towards J&lor, but through the efforts
of Niz&mu-ddin Ahmad they remained in Pattan." — Bad&^ni, vol. ii. p. 339.
* " This was the proper course under the circumstances, for intelligence of Kutbu-d
din Muhammad's affair had not as yet been received." — Bad&6nl, toI. ii. p. 330.
' He was at first received with great kindness and honour. — Bad&(ini, vol. ii.
p. 331.
VOL. T. 28
Digitized by VjOOQIC
434 NIZAHU-D DrN AHMAD.
And he also got possession of all the property and treasures of
Katba-d din, which exceeded ten krors. Collecting the soldiers
and B&jpdts from all parts near him, he raised his force to nearly
thirty thousand men.
When these occurrences were brought to the knowledge of the
Emperor, he sent Mirzd Khan, son of Bairam Kh&n, along with
the jdgirddra of Ajmir, such as P&yinda Muhammad Kh&n
Mughal * * and others too numerous to mention, by way of
J&lor and Pattan ; and he also sent Kalij Kh&n, who was the
jdgirddr of Surat, with • * jdglrddrs of M4lwa, by the way of
M&lwa. This latter force had arrived at Sultdnpur and Nan-
durb&r^ while Muzaffar was engaged at Broach, but dread of
Muzafiar prevented them from advancing a step further. I, the
author, every day wrote letters from Pattan to Mirz& Kh&n,
urging his speedy approach. When he arrived with his force at
Sirohi, I went forth to meet him, and brought him on with all
speed. He remained one day in Pattan, and then advanced.
When Mirz& Kh4n''s arrival became known to Muzafiar Guja-
r&ti, he left Broach, and returned to Ahmad&b&d, leaving the fort
of Broach in charge of Nasir, his brother's son, and Charkas
Bumi, one of the Imperial servants who had deserted to Muzaffar.
Mink Kh&n and his army encamped at Sarkaj, three kos from
Ahmaddb&d. Muzafiar pitched his camp opposite the Imperial
army, two kos distant, near the tomb of Sh&h Bhikan (God rest
his soul !).
On the day the two amries were thus brought near to each
other and afterwards some fighting went on, to the advantage
of the Imperial arms, until Friday, 16th Muharram, 991, when
Muzaffar marshalled his forces and attacked us. Mirz& Kb&n,
on his side, had made his dispositions. I, the author, and * *
were directed to keep the town of Sarkaj on our right, and to fall
upon the rear of the enemy. The two armies met, and the battle
began. Saiyid Hashim and Kbizr Akd, vakil of Mirza EJi&n,
^ Sult&npdr lies about twenty miles north of the T&pti ; Nandurb&r nearly the
same distance south of it.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 435
were slain, and many men fell. While Muzaffar was engaged
with Mirza Khdn, I brought round my men, and fell upon his
rear. R&i Durgd, also, of the left wing, under the orders of
Mirzd Kh&n, followed to. support uib. Muzafiar was put to
flight, and great numbers of his men were slaLn.^ Next morning
Mirzd Kh&n entered the city, and issued a proclamation of
amnesty, so that every one felt reassured. Muzaffar fled to
Ma'mur&b&d and the banks of the Mahindari river. From
thence he went to Kambay. Many of the fugitives rejoinedhim
there, so that his force again rose to nearly ten^ thousand men.^
Three days after the victory, Kalij Kh&n arrived at Ahmad-
&b&d with the army of M&lwa. Mirzd Kh&n and all the amira
then marched towards Kambay. On their arriving at ten kos
from the place, Muzaffar went off towards Baroda. When Mirzd
Kh4n reached the village of B&sad, near Patlad, on the bank of
the Mahindari,* he sent Kalij Kh&n and • * on in advance to
overtake and attack the enemy ; but this force, deterred by the
difficulty and narrowness of the road, came to a halt, and
Muzaffar got off to R&j-pipla and N&dot.^
Mirzi Kh&n and his army entered Baroda on the 16th, and
there rested. While he was there, intelligence arrived that
Saiyid Daulat, one of the officers of Muzaffar, had entered
Kambay, and overpowered the royal forces in the place. Naurang
Kh&n^ was sent to repress this diversion, and having driven out
the insurgent, he returned. Saiyid Daulat then came back and
seized the town again. Khojam Burdi, an officer of Mirz&
* AbtX-1 Fazl Bays the Imperial force amounted to only 10,000 horse, while their
opponents numbered 40,000 horse and 100,000 foot. — Akbar-ndmaf Tol. iiL p. 465.
> Bad&ani (toI. iL p. 333) makes the number to be *< 2000."
' Abtl-1 Fazl blames the Imperialists for not pursuing the enemy, and for allowing
him time to levy contributionB on Kambay and assemble his adherents. — Akbat'
ndma, yol. iii. p. 467.
* This shows that " Mahindari '* is another name for the Mahl or Mhye ; for there
is no other river near Patlad, and the maps give a " Wassud'' on its northern bank,
B B&j-pipla is south of the Nerbadda, almost on a line with Broach. N&dot is no
doubt N&ndod, between the Nerbadda and K&j-pipla.
» TolakEh&ninoneMS.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
436 KIZAMXJ-D DIN AHMAD.
£h&nX marched against him from Patlad, and defeated him.
Mirzd Kh&n marched with his army to N&dot, and Muzaffar
went off into the mountains. At&Hk Bah&dur now deserted
from the Imperial army, and joined Mozafiar. So the insuigents
were again set in motion.
Mirz4 Kh4n imprisoned S&n Bah&dur Uzbek, of whom he
was suspicions on account of his relations with At&lik Bah&dor,
and he resolved to attack the rebels. Sharif Kh&n and Naurang
Khan were appointed to the right, Kalij Kh&n and Tolak E[h&n
to the left, P&jinda Kh4n and some other amirs to the advance.
I was sent forward to reconnoitre, and find out the best way of
attacking the enemy.^
When I reached the foot of the hills, I attacked the enemy's
infantry, and drove them back for a good kos to where their main
force was drawn up in ari-ay. A sharp action ensued. The
discharge of arrows and bullets was quite bewildering, and many
men and horses on both sides were wounded. I dismounted
some of my best men, and rode on with them to the mountain,
and I sent some to call up Kalij Khan. I also sent Khw&ja
Muhammad Bafia', a man renowned for his courage. Kalij
Kh&n came up on the left, and becoming engaged, he bore back
the enemy a little. But reinforcements were brought up by the
enemy, and Kalij Kh&n and Tolak Kk&n were repulsed, and fell
back a bow-shot distance. The men whom I had dismounted,
while the enemy was pushing after Kalij Kh&n, finding the way
clear, ascended the hill. When the enemy returned, they at-
tacked us, and many men were killed. Kalij Kh&n had found
some shelter and held his ground. I sent to Mirz& Kh&n for
the elephant guns {hath-ndl). They were brought up upon
the elephants, and we discharged several guns against the spot
where Muzaffar was standing. Naurang Kh&n now came up the
mountain which covered the enemy's left, and got the command
of his position. '*When the balls from the elephant guns fell in
1 Mir Ma'sCim fiakhari (VoL I. p. 212} was associated with him. — Akbar-ndmA^
Tol. iii. p. 429.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 437
the midst of Muzaffar's division, he fled, and great numbers of
his men were taken prisoners or killed. The Imperial arms
obtained a complete victory.^ Mirzd Khdn returned, and came
to Ahmad&bad, where he busied himself in arranging the affairs
of the army and the peasantry. He left Kalij Khdn and * *
the other M&lwa amirs to proceed against Broach. For seven
months he remained in Ahmad&b&d, and at the end of that time
the fort of Broach was captured. Charkas Rurai, who had
deserted Kutbu-d din Muhammad Khdn to join Muzaffar, and
was appointed by him cpmmandant of the fortress of Broach, was
taken in the fort, and executed. Nasir, who was also an officer,
escaped, though half-dead.
At the time when Mirz4 Kh&n was sent to Gujardt, His
Majesty commanded a city and fort to be built at Pay&g, at the
confluence of the Ganges and Jumna, to which the name of
lUahab^ was given. His Majesty went there by boat from
-d^gra, and spent four months there pleasantly. * * When in-
telligence of the killing of Kutbu-d din and the spread of the
revolt in Gujar&t arrived. His Majesty started for i^gra and
Fathpur, so that he might set out from the latter place to
Gujar&t. On reaching Et&wa, intelligence of the victory arrived,
and so he stayed at Fathpur. He sent farmdns to the amirs
in Gujar&t. To Mirz& Kh&n he gave the title of Khdn-
kh&n&n, a horse, a robe, a jewelled dagger, and the banner of
6000* {tUtman tiigh). On me, the author, he bestowed a horse, a
robe, and increased emoluments. All the oflicers received marks
of his &vour.
After his second defeat, Muzafiar Gujar&ti retreated by way of
Champ&nir, Birpur,' and Jli&lawar,* to the country of Surath,^
^ Ab6-1 Fazl places the scene of this action near N&ndod, south of the Nerhadda.
and estimates the loss of the enemy at 2000 killed and 600 prisoners.— ^Ar3ar-;tama»
ToL iii. p. 430,
' Bad&6n( (toI. ii. p. 336) makes this clear by using the words paiy hazdrt,
» " Bfrpdr " or " Virpur/' fifty miles north-east of Ahmad&b&d ?
^ Jh&l&war is one of the ten pi-dnts or districts of £&thiw&r. It is on the northern
side. ^ See note p. 350 tuprd.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
438 NI2AMU-D DfN AHMAD.
and rested at the town of Gondal, twelve kos^ from the fort of
Junagarh. His scattered forces gathered round him from all
sides, so that ho mastered nearly three thousand horse and foot.
He gave Sk lac of Mahmudis and a jewelled dagger to Amin
Kh&n Ghori, raler of Sdrath, and so won his sapport. He gave
a similar sum to J&m Marsal,^ B&j& of Jh&lawar, who was at the
head of a body of troops and clansmen. He once more formed
designs against Ahmad&b&d. Amin Kh&n, being cautious, Bsii to
Muzaffar, '' Go te the J km, and take him along with you. I will
attend to the provisions for the army,. and will follow you.*'
When Muzaffar went to the Jim, he drew back and said, "You
march and advance against Ahmadab&d : I will follow." On the
arrival of Muzaffar at Morbi^' sixty ko8 from Ahmad&b&d, and
the intelligence of his advance being brought to Sh&n-kh&n&n,
the Kh&n set off with all diligence to encounter him. When
Muzaffar reached Param-g&m, forty ko8 from Morbi, and neither
the Jiiti nor Amin Kh4n arrived, he returned disheartened and
distracted towards the mountains of Barda.^ Then he proceeded
to Jagat, which is the extreme town of Surath, and well known
under the name of Dwirka.*
The Jkm sent his vakils to Sh&n-khdn&n, to represent that
lie was friendly to the Imperial Government ; that he had taken
money from Muzaffar^ but had not joined him, and that he was
then ready to conduct the army to the place where Muzafiar was
staying. Amin Kh&n, also, through the introduction of Mir
Tur&b, sent his son to wait upon Kh&n-kh&n&n, and assure him
of his good wishes. The J&m^s men guided Kh&n-kh&n&n on a
rapid march into the mountains of Barda, which were plundered
and ravaged. A vast quantity of booty was obtained, and many
men were killed or made prisoners.
* North-east.
* Bad&fini'B reading (toI. ii. p. 359) is ** Sattaisld/' which looks more oorrect
* The <* Morri " or ** Morbi " of the maps, in the north of K&thiw&r, on the route
which crosses the Ran.
^ Barda or Jaitwar is a prdnt or district of E&thlw&r. It is bounded on the west
by the sea, and the river Bhfiidar is for some distance its southern bonndar}*. — ^Thorn-
ton, 8,v, " Barda," * On the coast.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 439
Muzaffar, with five hundred Mughal horsemen, and five
hundred E&thiw&r horsemen, went off towards Gujar&t, and
proceeded to a place called Othaniya, which is situated between
the S&barmati river and the mountain defiles, and was held by
a rebellious Eol named Bh&i. When Eh&n-kh&n&n went away
(into the mountains), he left Medini R&i, Khojam Bardi, * • *
and others in charge of the army at Had&la, near to Danduka,^
on the high road to Kambay. He also left Bay&n Bah&dur and
* * * with a division at Par&nti,* four hos from Othaniya.
When Muza&r proceeded to Othaniya, Saiyid K&sim B&rha
came from Pattan to Blj&pur,' which is thirty koa from Othaniya;
and tlie force which was at Had&la came and joined the one at
Par&nti. Muzaffar^ supported by the Kols and Gr&ssias, and all
the disaffected zaminddrs of the vicinity, gave battle to the force
which was at Par&nt(; but he was signally defeated, and his
elephant's and canopy fell into the hands of the victors. Many
of his men were killed, and he himself escaped barefoot and
half-dead.
While Eh&n-khfin&n was thus engaged in the mountains of
Barda, it became known that the J&m was not acting honestly.
His vakils were dismissed, and sent back to him. The J&m pre-
pared to oppose us, and collected an army of twenty thousand
horse* and innumerable infantry. When Khdn-kh&n&n came
to within seven kos of him, he sent an envoy to make his
apologies, and he also sent his son with three large elephants and
eighteen Arab horses' to Kh&n-kh4n&n, expressing his earnest
desire to enter into a treaty, and to act in a friendly way.
Eh&n-kh&n&n then returned to Ahmadab&d^ and five months
afterwards he was summoned to the Imperial Court, whither he
proceeded in all haste.
Muzaffar was then in K&thiw&r, and was greatly aggrieved
^ About twenty miles N.£. of DandCika. * Thirty miles north of Ahmad&b&d.
• About twenty miles N.W. of Par&nti.
* Badli(iui (toI. ii. p. 360) makes the number only « 8000 horse."
' *< Hones of Kach, which are like Arabs."— Bad&tlni, toI ii. p. 360.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
440 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
with Amin Kh&n for having taken hia money, and not haying
given him any help. Supported by the people of K&thiw&r and
the zaminddrSy he collected an army, and marched against Amin
Khdn, who took shelter in the fort of Amartali. Intelligence of
this was brought to Kalij Kh&n and me, who were at Ahmad&b&d.
Kalij Kh&n remained in the city, and I went oat with Saiyid
K&sim Kh&n B&rha, Medini B&i and * * *, and marched forward
with all speed to Sdrath.
When I reached Had&la, Muzaffar, feeling unable to contend
with me, raised the siege of Amin Kh&n, and went off towards
Kach. I then sent Mir Kalij and * * to Amin Khdn, pro-
posing that we should in concert pursue Muzaffar into K&thiw&r.
I pushed forward and went to Morbi. Muzaffar fled and crossed
the Ban, which is an inlet of the sea, and took the road to
Jessalmir. In some places the breadth of the water of the Ran
is ten ko8 and twenty kos. He went into the country which they
call Kach, on the other side of this water. When I reached
Morbi, the J&m and Amin Kh&n sent their sons to me, and
having entered into engagements with me, I returned towards
Biram-g4m.^
Intelligence now arrived of the departure of Kh&n-kh&n&n
from Court, and of his having gone to the neighbourhood of
Sirohi, with the intention of taking Sirohi and J&lor. I, in
agreement with Saiyid Kdsim Kh&n, proceeded with my men to
join him. The Baj4 of Sirohi came to see Kh&n-khfin&n, and
paid a sum of money as tribute. Ghazin Klian, of J&lor, also
came forward. But when Kh&n-kh&n&n was on his way to
Court, Ghazin had shown some rudeness and signs of disaffec-
tion; he was therefore imprisoned, and possession was taken of
the fort of J&lor. Kh&n-kh&n&n went and took up his residence
at Ahmad&b&d.
To return to home affairs. Twenty days after Kh&n-kh&n&u
arrived at Court, intelligence was brought of the death of Mirz&
Muhammad Hakim, the Emperor's brother. Orders were given
^ Or ** Viram-giLm," twenty-fiye miles east of Ahmod&b&d.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 441
to B&J& Bhagwin D&a and Eanwar M&n Singh, the governor
of the Panjab, to go and take possession of K&bul. His Majesty
himself proceeded to the Panj&b.
At this time Mir Murtaza and Ehad&wand Eh&n, ruler of
the country of Bir&r in the Dakhin, marched to attack Ahmad-
nagar.^ They were defeated in battle by Sal&bat Eh&u, the
vakil of Niz&mu-l Mulk, and then came complaining to the
Imperial Court. A farmdn was sent to 'Azam Xh&n, ruler of
M&Iwa, directing him to march against the Dakhin, and subdue
Bir&r. Farmdns were also sent to Mir Murtaza, Khud&wand
Kh&n, Tfrand&z Kh&n, and other men of the Dakhin. Many of
the great nobles, such as 'Abdu-1 Matlab Kh&n, ♦ * R&i Durga,*
B&J& Askaran,' * * and many others, too numerous to mention,
were sent with artillery, three hundred elephants, and the army
of M&Iwa on this expedition. Mir Fathu-lla, who had received
the title of 'Azdu-d daula, was sent to make arrangements in
the Dakhin. Ehw&jagi Fathu-lla was appointed bakhshiy and
Mukht&r Beg diwdn of this army.
This force concentrated at Hindia,^ on the borders of the
Dakhin. *Azam Kh&n had a feud with Shah&bu-d din Ahmad
Khan, then ruler of Ujjain, because he suspected Shah&bu-d din
of having instigated the murder of his father. ^Azdu-d daula
endeavoured to assuage his animosity ; but 'Azam Kh&n was a
passionate man, and insulted both Shah&bu-d din and 'Azdu-d
dauia. For six months the force remained inactive at Hindia,
and at length matters reached such a pitch that Shah&bu-d din,
being offended with 'Azam Kh&n, went off to hia j'dffir of R&isin.
'Azam Kh&n marched to attack him, and a dire calamity was
upon the point of &IIing upon the royal army; but 'Azdu-d
daula managed to effect a reconciliation.
When B&J& '^Ali Kh&n, the ruler of Asir and Burh&npur, saw
these dissensions in the Imperial army, he gathered his forces
1 *< The capital of Niz&ma4 Mulk."— Bad&6ni, toI. ii. p. 343.
* See Bloohmann's Ain-i Akbart, toI. i. p. 417. ' 19. p. 458.
* On the south bank of the Nerbadda, Lat. 77.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
442 NIZAMU-D DrN AHMAD.
and marched against 'Azdu-d daula. On his approach, 'Azdu-d
daula went to him, and sought to win him over; but he did
not succeed, so he retreated to Gujarat to strengthen Kh&n-
kh&n&n.
The above-named ('Azam Kh&n) went towards Birir, and
plundered Elichpur ; but not being able to maintain his gronnd,
proceeded toward^ Nandurb&r.^ The Dakhinis followed march
by march, and 'Azam £h&n, notwithstanding his great strength,
fell back before them,, till he reached Nandurb&r. He wrote
letters to Kh&n-kh&n&n at Ahmad&b&d, calling for assistance,
and Kh&n-kh&n&n sent me and a number of amirs^ such as * *,
on in advance, and declared his own intention of following.
When I arrived at Mahmud&b&d, 'Azam Kh&n left his army
at Nandurb&r, and proceeded with a few attendants to Ahinad-
&b&d. Sh&n-kh&n&n came out quickly from Ahmad4b&d to
receive him, and they met at the place where I was resting, and
then returned to Ahmad&b&d. 'Azam Khin's sister was wife of
Kh&n-kh&n&n, so he went to see her, and the two Kh&ns re-
solved to proceed afterwards against the Dakhinis.
I and my associates marched against the rebels to Baroda,
and Kh&n-kh&n&n and 'Azam Kh&n followed me ; but the latter
went on quickly, in order to get the army at Kandurbar ready.
Eh&n-kh&n&n wrote to me, directing me to wait at Baroda till
he arrived. When the Kh&n arrived, he proceeded with the
army to Broach, and on reaching that place he received letters
from 'Azam Kh&n, in which he said, that as the rainy season had
begun, operations must be postponed to the following year, and
then they would proceed together against the Dakhin. 'Azam
Kh&n returned to M&lwa, B&j& 'Ali Kh&n went with the
Dakhinis to their homes, and Kh&n-kh&n&n returned to Ahmad-
&b&d, where he occupied himself in matters of administration for
five months.
Intelligence arrived that the Emperor was marching towards
^ £lichp(ir iB VD Bir&r, and Nandurb&r in K&ndesb, about 200 miles due west of
tUe former.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AOARf. 443
E&bul, and had arrived at Atak-Ban&ras,^ intent upon effecting
the conquest of Badakhsh&n. Kh&n-kh&n&u wrote a letter solicit-
ing the honour of being allowed to serve under him, and the
Emperor sent a farmdn^ summoning him to his presence. Kalij
Khan, Naurang Khdn, and myself were confirmed in our com-
mands in Gujar&t. Kh&n-kh&n&n and 'Azdu-d daula, who had
come up from ' Azam Eh&n, went off to join the Emperor.^
Just as Eh&n-kh&n&Q started, the news was brought in that
the men of Xhang&r,' as allies of Muzaffar Gujar&ti, had attacked
and killed B&i Singh, the zaminddr of Jh&I&war. This Hil
Singh was son of B&i Man, E&ja of Jh&l&war; and when he
succeeded his father, he attacked the neighbouring zaminddrs,
sucli as the J&m, Ehang&r, and others, and subdued them. His
name is celebrated in song and story, in the towns of Gujar&t,
for the courage he displayed, and he had a great renown.
A feud arose between B&yat and S&yat, the nephews of the
chief of Khangdr, and severe fighting occurred, in which S4yat
was killed, and many men on both sides perished. B&i Singh
also was wounded, and was lefl upon the field. Next day some
jogia found him, tended him, cured him, and carried him with
them to Bengal. He passed two years with them in the guise of
2kjogi. When Kh&n-kh&n&n marched against Muzaffar Gujar&ti,
he came to the Ehin, and told him his story. The Kh&n sent
him to Jh41&war to be recognized by his people. He related
the facts to them, and adduced his proofs, on which they
acknowledged him^ and reinstated him. He attacked the people
of K&thiw&r, and plundered several of the tribes, and he also began
to assail the country of the J&m and of Ehangar. He mastered
1 « Which u also caUed Atak-katak."— Bad&dnr, toI. ii. p. 362. It has been
shown in page 386 suprd^ that Atak and Katak are alike distinguished by the addition
of " Ban&ras.'*
^ Bad&dni here closes his account of the campaign in Gujar&t with these words :
'* Daring the absence of Eh&n-kh&n&n, Niz&mu-d din Ahmad rendered excellent and
acceptable services in Gnjar&t, which he himself has fully described in his Tdrikh-i -
JVtsdmf."— Badlitol, yol. ii. p. 362.
> £hang&r, E&o of Kach, chief of the Jh&reja tribe. — ^Thornton, toI. ii. p. 48.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
444 NIZAMU-D DTN AHMAD.
and took possession of the town of Halwad,^ one of the de-
pendencies of Jh&l&war. The people of that neighboarhood,
who had long been at enmity with him, assembled in force to
attack him. The intelligence of their rising was brought to him
while he was in the chaugdn ground. He immediately started to
meet them, and came up to them in a moonlight night. They
sent a person to him to say that if he were really R&i Singh he
would not attack them by night. He magnanimously assented
to their wish, and rested where he was, and went to sleep. His
opponents here found their opportunity, and encouraging their
followers they drew near to him, and when morning broke their
whole party fell upon him. He and eighty men that were with
him fought on foot, and he was killed.
When Muzaffar Gujarfiti heard of the departure of Kh&n-
kh&n&n with his troops and family, he came to Amarun,' where
the tomb of Malik D&waru-l Mulk is, and laid the foundations
of an army. Kalij Eh&n remained to guard Ahmad&b&d, and I
with Saiyid Kasim and * * went to disperse the insurgents who
had killed B&i Singh. When I reached Halwad, I sent a de-
tachment to ravage the villages in the pargana of M&lia,' which
belongs to Khang&r; and I sent another detachment, under
Medini B&(, to Amarun, against Muzaffar. Upon their ap-
proaching that place, Muzaffar went off to E&thiw4r and hid
himself. The J&m sent his son to me to make excuses for his
cruel treatment of Rai Singh, and Ehang&r also sent his agents
to renew his promises of loyalty. I then returned to Ahfnad&b&d.
After my arrival there Ealij Kh&n started for Surat, and en-
camped outside the city.
It then occurred to Muzaffar that after the departure of the
army and the return of each man to his jdgir^ he would make a
dash upon Dulaka and Kambay, as he might thus be able to
raise a force before the return of the Imperial army. So he
advanced rapidly upon Dulaka at the head of two thousand
1 In the north of E&thiw&r, near the Ran.
> Or << AmbarQn.'* > Near tiie edge of the Ran.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARr. 445
horsemen, K&this and Jh&rejas. On receiving letters from
Medini Eai, who was at Dulaka, I instantly took horse and
started thither. As I was resting till evening at Sarkaj,^ Kalij
'Khkn came in and joined me with all the chief nobles and men
of the city. Next morning we arrived at Dulaka, but then
Muzafiar was four kos away. For when his scouts informed him
that the army of Ahmaddb&d was approaching, he fell back to
Morbi.
The Imperial army occupied Ddlaka, and at night Kalij Eh&n
returned to Ahmad&b&d. I and my companions followed Mu-
zaffar. One night and the next day we travelled forty-five kos.
On reaching Biram-g&m, we heard that Muzafiar had gone to
the village of Akh&r, which was four kos ofi*, and had there shut
up Saiyid Mustafa, son of Saiyid Jal&I, who happened to be
there with his family. Night had come on, and we were unable
to proceed farther. So I sent twenty horsemen, with a pair of
kettle-drums, directing them to go about a koa from the village,
and beat them, that Muzafiar might suppose our army to be near
and give up the siege. By God's help my stratagem succeeded,
the beleaguered people were released, and Muzafiar went ofi* to the
Ban and Kach. In the morning I mounted and hastened off* in
pursuit. I went as far as the Ban ; then leaving an outpost in
the village of Jhajusa,' near the water, I returned to Ahmad&b&d.
Four months afterwards, the zaminddra of Kach collected a
force of nearly a thousand horse and ten thousand foot, under
the command of Jas& and Baj&m, nephews of Khang&r. They
proceeded to the village of E&dhanpur,' one of the dependencies
of Pattan, and laid siege to the fort. When intelligence of this
arrived at Ahmadab&d, I and * • went off" to relieve the place.
On hearing of our approach, the enemy took flight, passed over
the Ban, and went into their own country.
It was necessary to put an end to these proceedings, so I
crossed over the Ban into Kach at a place where the water was
1 Opposite Ahmad&b&d. ' Doubtful.
' A town sixty milea west of Pattan.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
446 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
not more than three kos wide, and set to work plundering and
destroying. We burnt and destroyed the towns of Kari and
Eat&ri&, two places well known in £ach. We realized an
enormous booty, and after plundering and destroying nearly
three hundred Tillages in the course of three days, we re-crossed
the Ban opposite M&lia and Morbi. Here the Ban was twelve
ko8 wide, and we were engaged from dawn till eve in the passage.
The water was up to a man's navel. After crossing we ravaged
and destroyed the parganaa of M&Iia and Morbi, which belonged
to Khang&r.
We remained at Morbi three days. Here I wrote to Ehangar,
telling him how I had been informed that the hostile proceedings
were the work of Jas& and Baj&in, and had not been sanctioned
by him. I had therefore inflicted a little punishment. Had it
been otherwise, I would have attacked Bhuj, his residence. If he
did not henceforth act loyally, he would see what would happen.
Khang&r sent his vak(h to me with his apologies. Aft^r this a
barrier was raised (against inroads).
In the year 995 the younger son of Amfn Kh&n rebelled
against him, and went to MuzaSar, and brought him against his
father. When I heard this, I went with * * against Muzaffar,
to repress this outbreak. On arriving at B&jkot,^ 80 koa from
Ahmad&bad, and thirty from Junagarh, Muzatfar made off to-
wards the Ban. Sidi Bihan, vakil of Amin Eh&n, and a pro-
moter of the strife, with Nokin Gohil, and other zaminddrs^ and
Bir Kh&n Singh, Malik Bajan, and others of the chief men of
those parts, nearly five hundred horsemen, separated from the
insurgents, and came in to make peace. I treated them hospit-
ably, and held out to them expectations of royal &vour. The
J&m and Amin Kh&n also sent their sons to me, and renewed
their professions of loyalty.
After returning to Ahmad&b&d, I turned my thoughts to the
repression of the Gr&ssias. In the course of two months I fitted
out an army, and then marched towards Othaniya and Ahmad-
1 Near the centre of E&tMw&r.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 447
nagar. I attacked and laid waste nearly fifty villages of the
Kolis and Gr&ssias, and I built forts in seven different places to
keep these people in check. Falling back with mj forces, I went
to W&k&nird and Sam&l,^ to put down the mutinous proceedings
of the Grassias. Having put Ohait B&wat to death, I removed
Karmf Koli, Kishna Koli, and Lakha R&jput, who were the
principal Gr&ssias of those parts, and left forts and garrisons in
their places.
In the year 996 the Emperor gave Gujar4t to ""Azam Khdn,
and recalled me to Court. By rapid stages I reached the Im-
perial Court at Lahore in fourteen days, and was most graciously
received.
The intelligence of the successes in Gujar&t reached the
Emperor as he was travelling. He returned thanks to God
for his success, and continued his journey in great joy. At this
time Zain Ehan Eoka, B&j& B&m Chandar B&j& of Bittiah, a
man of high repute among the B&j&s of Hindust&n, who had
never before acknowledged allegiance to the Sult&ns of Hin^
dust&n, now expressed his desire of doing so, and came to wait
upon the Emperor at Fathpur. He was graciously received.
He presented as his tribute one hundred and twenty elephants,
and a fine ruby, valued at fifty thousand rupees.
Thirtieth year of the Reign.
The thirtieth year of the reign and the Nauroz-i Sultdni^
or New Year's Day of the Il&hi era, now arrived. [^Rejoicings.'}
Letters arrived from Mirz& Muhammad Hakim, relating that
'Abdu-IIa Eh&n Uzbek had obtained possession of Badakhshan,
and that Mirz& Shah Rukh and Mirz& Sulaim&n were coming
to Hindiist&n. [Mirzd Shah Rukh crosses the Indus and meets
with a gracious reception from the Emperor in 993 h. Marriage
of Prince Salim with the daughter of Rdjd Bhagwdn Dds. Oreat
ceremony and rejoicing,']
^ W&k&ofra or W&nkiLiilr is on tho Watrak ri?er, fifty miles N.E. of Ahmad&b&d.
Digitized by CjOOQIC
448 KIZAMU-D Dm AHMAD.
Thirty-first year of the JReign.
The NauroZ'i Sulidni of the thirty-first year of the reign and
the first year of the second karn of the reign fell npon Thnrsday,
19th Babi u-I awwal, 993 h. (11th March, 1585). ITAe tssual
rejoicings.']
At the beginning of this year Mir Murtaza and Khudawand
£h&n, amira of the Dakhin, came to the Imperial Court. Their
affairs have been already noticed in describing the occurrences in
Gujar&t. When they were defeated by Sal&bat Kh&n, and came
to Burhdnpur, BA]k 'AH Kh&n, the governor of that place, took
their elephants from them, and he sent 150 of them in chaise of
his son to the Emperor. The Dakhini amira were received^ and
presented their tribute on New Year's Day.
Mir Fathu-lla Shir&zi, who had the title of 'Azdu-d daula,
was now created chief Sadr of Hindust&n, and received at the
same time a horse, a robe, and five thousand rupees.
Letters arrived from K&bul, stating that * * Mirzd Sulaim&n,
with the assistance of Mirzd Muhammad Hakim, had returned to
Badakhsh&n, and obtained a victory over the army of 'Abda-Ua
Kh&n Uzbek. * * * Letters now arrived from Atak-Ban&ras,
from Kunwar Man Singh and Khw&ja Shamsu-din Muhammad,
with the information that Mirzd Muhammad Hakim was very
ill. That Faridun had started with a caravan from Pesh&war to
K&bul, but had been defeated by Afgh&ns in the Shaibar Pass,
and compelled to retreat to Pesh&war. That a fire had broken
out in the fort of Pesh&war, and that a thousand camel-loads of
merchandize had been consumed. That through this disaster
Faridun had got free, and had gone by another road to K&bul,
and that seventy men .had perished ou the journey from
thirst.
'Abdu-Ua Kh&n of Badakhsh&n, when he was informed of
Mirz4 Sulaim&n's success, gathered a strong force, which he sent
to oppose him. Mirzd Sulaiman, unable to cope with this army,
retreated to K&bul, and all Badakhsh&n came into the power of
the Uzbeks.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEI. 449
Intelligenoe now reached the Emperor of the death of Mirz&
Mahammad Hakim. The Mirza was the Emperor's own brother,
but the Emperor had shown him kindness and affection greater
than even that of a brother. For the Mirz& had often been
presumptuous and aggressive, and the Emperor had not only
pardoned him and showed him favour, but had sent amirs and
armies to maintain him in K&bul. He was greatly addicted to
wine, and excessive drinking was the cause of his illness and
death. He died on the 12th Sha'b&n, 993. When the news
of his death reached the Emperor, he was much grieved ; and
after the period of mourning was over, his purpose was to confirm
the country of K&bul to the sons of the Mirzd. But the nobles
urged that the Mirz&'s sons were of tender age, and incapable
of ruling ; and that the Uzbek army which had already taken
Badakhsh&n was on the look out for K&bul also. These con-
siderations induced the Emperor to march to the Panj&b, and
he began his march on the 10th Bamaz&n. * * *
The Emperor travelled on by successive stages without making
any halt to Dehli. There. he visited the tomb of his father and
the shrines of the saints, and dispensed his charity upon the
poor, and celebrated the 'Td, On the 19th Shaww&l he reached
the banks of the Sutlej and encamped. There he was informed
that Eunwar M&n Singh had sent a body of men across the Indus
to Pesh&war, and that Sh&h Beg^ the officer of Mirzd Mu-
hammad Hakim, had fled to Kabul.
S&dik Eh&n was sent from Lahore to take charge of the
Government of Bhakar. On the 17th ZI-1 ka'da the Emperor en-
camped by the side of the Chin&b ; * * * and on the 28th he
reached and crossed the Behut (Beyah). Here he received a
despatch from Kunwar M&n Singh, reporting that the people of
K&bul had willingly submitted to the Imperial rule. Muhammad
'AH Ehaz&nchi, who had been sent to E&bul, returned and re-
ported that when Muhammad Hakim Mirzd died, his sons ^ were
1 Their names were " Kaikdb&d and Afr&siyCib."— Bad&6ni, toL ii. p. 348. The
former was fourteen, and the latter nine years of age.—Akbar-ndma.
VOL, T. 29
Digitized by VjOOQIC
450 NIZAMTT-D DrN AHMAD.
SO young and incapable, that the direction of affairs at K&bul was
in the hands of the nobles, who were &yoarabIe to the claims of
the Emperor. Moreover, Farid6n Kh&n, the uncle of the late
Mirz&, when Eunwar M&n Singh entered K&bul in hot haste,
finding that he was helpless, brought the young princes to wait
upon the Kunwar. They were received with great kindness and
assurances of protection. Kunwar M&n Singh left his own sons
in E&bul in the charge of Shamsu-d din Khafi, and set off with
the young princes and the nobles of K&bul to meet the Emperor.
On the 25th Zi*l hijja the Eunwar brought the princes and the
E&bul nobles into the presence of the Emperor at the town of
Bdwal-pindi, which is situated between Boht&s and Atak. They
were received with princely generosity. Each of the chief at-
tendants received five thousand or six thousand rupees as a gift.
Suitable allowances dkui jdgirs were also granted.
When the Emperor reached Atak, he sent Bhagw&n D&s, Shfih
Kuli Mahram, and other well-known amirSy with about 5000
horse, to effect the conquest of Kashmir. On the same day
Isma'il Kuli Kh&n and Rai Singh were sent against the
Biluchis. Next day Zain Kh&u Koka was sent with a force
against the Afgh&ns of Sw&d (Sw&t) and Bajaur, to reduce that
turbulent people to order. The Emperor encamped at Atak on
the 15th Muharram, 994.
In former times ^ a Hinddstani soldier had come among the
Afgh&ns, and set up an heretical sect.' He induced many foolish
people to become his disciples, and he gave himself the title
of Pir Roshandi.^ He was dead, but his son Jal&la, a youth of
about fourteen, came, in the year 989 h., to wait upon the Em-
peror, as he was returning from K&bul. He was kindly received ;
but after a few days his evil disposition induced him to take
flight, and go off to the Afgh&ns. There he raised disturbances ;
and gathering a good number of men around him, he shut up the
* " Twenty-fivo years before this time." — Bad&(iiii, yoI. ii. p. 349.
a "Mazhab-i zandaka wa ilhdd:*
3 He wrote a book called Khairu-l haydn^ in whicli he expounded his heretkftl
tenets. — Bad^iinf, vol. ii. p. 349.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT.I AKBARr. 451
roads between Hindust&n and E&bul. In order to repress this
base sect of Ita8?iandi8, whose baseness will be hereafter described,
His Majesty placed Knnwar M&n Singh in command, and gave
him E&bul mjdgir.
When intelligence arrived of Zain Eh&n Eoka having entered
the country of Sw&t, and of his having encountered this sect of
Afgh&ns, who were as numerous as ants and locusts, on the 2nd
Safar, 994 h., Saiyid Kh&n Gakhar, E&j& Birbal, and ♦ * ♦
were sent with forces to support him. A few days later Hakim
Abu-1 Fath wa& sent after them with additional forces. After
these reinforcements had joined, Zain Kh&n began ta plunder
and ravage the Afgh&ns, and great spoil fell into his hands.
When they reached the pass of Kar&gar, a person observed to
Rkj& Birbal that the Afgh&ns meditated a night attack on that
night, that the extent of the mountain and of the pass was only
three or four ko8y and that if they got through the pass, they
would be safe from the attack designed. It4j& Birbal,^ without
making any communication to Zain Ehan, pushed on to get
through the pass, and all his army followed. At close of day,
when the sun was about to set, they reached a defile, the heights
of which on every side were covered with Afghdns. Arrows and
stones were showered down upon the troops in the narrow pass,
and in the darkness and in the narrow defile men lost their path,
and perished in recesses of the mountain. A terrible defeat and
slaughter followed. Nearly eight thousand men were killed, and
K&J& Birbal, who fled for his life, was slaiu.' R&j& Dharm
Singh, Khw&ja ^Arab, hakhshi of the army, and * ♦ * were all
killed. On the 5th Rabi'u-1 awwal Zain Khdn Koka and Hakim
Abu-1 Fath were defeated, and reached the fort of Atak with
difiiculty.
This defeat greatly troubled the Emperor. He dismissed
these commanders, and sent Bdja Todar Mai with a large army
^ **Iii his reckless headstrong conceit," says Bad&(inl (vol. ii. p. 350), who seldom
misses an opportunity of venting his spleen upon a Hindu.
' Many reports of his having escaped were afterwards current, but they all proved
to be false. — Bad&CinC, vol. ii. p. 357.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
452 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
to repair the disaster. The B&j& entered the mountain region
with great caution. Here and there he built forts, and harried
and plundered continually, so that he reduced the Afgh&ns to
great straits. B&j& M&n Singh, who had marched against these
sectaries, fought a hard battle with them in the Khaibar Pass, in
which many of them were slain and made prisoners. The R&j&
obtained a great victory.
News now arrived that Mir Euraish was coming to Court ais
an ambassador from 'Abdu-Ua Kh&n Uzbek, King of M&war&u-n
nahr, bringing presents. Nazar Be,^ who was one of the great
nobles of 'Abdu-lla Kh&n, being offended with the Eh&n, was
also coming with his three sons, Kabz Be, Shddi Be, and B&ki
Be, all of whom had attained the rank of nobles. The Emperor
sent Shaikh Farid Bakhshi and Ahmad Beg K&buli, with a party
of ahadisy to meet the caravan and bring it through the Ehaibar
Pass. This armed party, with the help of Kunwar M&n Singh,
brought the caravan through the pass, having beaten the black
sectaries who attempted to block the road, and killed many of
them.
Thirty-second year of the Reign.
On the 11th Eabi'u-1 4khir, 995 (11th March, 1587 a,d.),
when the sun passed from Pisces to Aries, the Nauroz-% Sultdni
was celebrated at the fort of Atak, and Kunwar M&n Singh
came to the feast.
When Mirzd Sh&h Bukh, B&j& Bhagw&n D&s, and Sh&h Kuli
Kh&n Mahram reached the pass of Bhuliy&s,' on the confines of
Kashmir, Yusuf Kh&n, the ruler of that country, came up and
blockaded the pass. The Imperial forces remained for some days
inactive, snow and rain came on, and the supplies of com were
cut off. Moreover, the news of the defeat of Zain Kh&n arrived,
and the army was in great difficulty. The amirs resolved to
make peace. They settled a tribute to be paid by saffron, shawls,
» " An Uzbek, and ruler of Balkh."— Bad&dnS, vol. il p. 351.
» «Phtflb&8."— Bad&iini, vol. ii. p. 352.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAEAT-I AKBABT. 463
and by the mint to the royal treasury, and they appointed col-
lectors.^ Yusuf was delighted with these terms, and came to
visit the amirs^ and they brought him along with them to see the
Emperor. When they came to Court, the Emperor disapproved
of the peace, and the amirs were forbidden his presence ; but after
some days they were allowed to make their obeisances.
About this time the ambassador of ' Abdu-lla Khiin with Nazar
Be and his sons arrived, and had an interview. Isma'il Euli
Kh&n and E&i Singh also arrived, bringing with them the chief
men and leaders of the Biluchis. A sum of four lacs of tankas,
equal to five hundred tdrndna of 'Ir&k, was presented as a gift to
Nazar Be and his sons. After the feast of the Nauroz was over,
Eunwar M&n Singh was ordered to go to the support of Il&j&
Todar Mai, who had been sent against the Yusufz&i Afgh&ns
and others. When the Emperor had settled the course to be
pursued with the Afgh&ns, and the affairs of Atak and E&bul,
he resolved to return to Lahore, and started on the 24th Babi'u-s
sani. Hunting and amusing himself as he went, he arrived at
Lahore on the 18th Jum&da-s s&n(.'
When Kunwar M&n Singh was appointed to the government of
E&bul, Isma'il Eull Eh&n was sent from the river Behut (Beyah)
in command of a strong force against the Yusufz&i and other
Afghans. An Imperial order was issued to Kunwar M&n Singh,
that when Isma'il Euli arrived, the Eunwar was to go on to
E&bul. Saiyid Bukh&ri also was appointed to support Isma'il
Eull, and was directed to occupy Pesh&war.
Mir ''Arab Bah&dur, who had fled for refuge into the hills of
Eam&un, and had troubled the inhabitants of the country at the
foot of the hills, was killed by the servants of Mir Abu-1 Fath
in the pargana of Sherkot.
On the I3th Bajab the ceremony of weighing the Emperor
was performed, and a splendid festival was held ; and on the 19tli
1 «« They gare the ooimtry entirely oyer to Ydsuf."— Bad&iSiii, toI. ii. p. 352.
^ The author's arrangement has been slightly changed here. In his diary style of
writing, soTeral lines are interposed between the Emperor's departure for aud arrival
at Lahore.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
454 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
Prince Salim was married to the daughter of E&i Singh, one of
the great nobles. The B&j& sent fine presents with his daughter,
and felt highly honoured by the alliance.
Muhammad E&sim Ehdn Mkr-hahr and * * was sent with a
large force to effect the conquest of Kashmir. After seven
marches they entered the defiles of the mountains. When they
reached the pass of Kartal, Ya'ktib, the son of Yusuf Eh&n,^
considering himself ruler of Kashmir, came with a considerable
force to oppose them. He closed the pass, and there took his
post. But fortune fought for the Imperial army, and the stoue
of dissension was cast among the Kashmiris. Tlie chiefe of
Kashmir were distressed with the rule of Ya'^kub, and several
deserted from him and joined K4sim Kh&n. Another party
raised the standard of rebellion in Srinagar, which is the capital
of the country, Ya'kub, deeming it of primary importance to
crash the internal rebellion, returned to Kashmir. The Imperial
army then entered Kashmir without oppoisition, and Ya'kub,
unable to make any resistance, fled to the mountains. Srinagar
was occupied, and revenue collectors were appointed to all the
parganas.
The Emperor, on being informed of the conquest, sent letters
of thanks to K&sim Kh&n and the other amirs^ and bestowed
hoDour^and promotions upon all of them. Ya'kub raised a force,
and fought with Kasim Kh&u, but was defeated. Another time
he tried a night surprise, but was unsuccessful. The royal forces
pursued him into hills full of trees and defiles, beating him and
driving him before them. He was very nearly captured. At
last, in wretched plight and in humble mood, he waited upon
Kdsim Kh&n, and enrolled himself among the subjects of the
Imperial throne.* The country of Kashmir was thus cleared.
^ Tdsuf Kh&n had been thrown into prison, and Ta'kdb *' treated his father as
dead." — BadfrtiDi, vol. ii. p. 363.
' He wiis eventnally sent into Bih&r toE&j& M&n Singh, to join his father; and
both Tdsuf and Ta'ktlb there died in confinement, worn out with trouble and chagrin.
, — Bad&ilnf, vol. ii. p. 3d3. AbCi-1 Fazl, however, says that '' Ydnif was released from
prison, and received ajdgir^ so that he might learn better manners, and appreciate the
kind treatment he had received." — Akbar-ndma^ vol. iii. p. 6i9.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 455
On the 19th Bamaz&n the ambassador of 'Abdu-Ua Eh&n
received leave to return. Hakim Humam * was sent as envoy
to ''Abda-Ua Khan, and Mir Sadr Jah&n * as a complimentary
visitor to Iskandar Kh&n, the &ther of ^Abdu-Ua Kh&n.
Nearly a lac and a half of rupees, equal to three thousand
seven hundred tUmdns of 'Ir&k, goods of Hindust&n, and
curiosities were entrusted to Muhammad ''Alt Khaz&nchi for
presentation to 'Abdu-lla Kh&n,
Saiyid H&mid Bukh&ri, formerly one of the nobles of the
Sult&ns of Gujar&t, had been received into the Imperial service,
and was sent to Pesh&war for the repression of the Boshan&i
sectaries. They had assembled about 20,000 foot and 5000
horse to attack him. He, and a few men who were with him at
the time, fought and perished. The Emperor sent Zain Eh&n
Eoka and.* * with a large force to subdue these heretics, who
occupied the Khaibar Pass, and closed the road between Kdbul
and Hindustan. Eunwar Mkn Singh marched from E&bul,^ and
attacked and defeated them in the Khaibar, and put a great
many of them to the sword. He then occupied Jamrdd, and
left a det^kchment in the Khaibar.
Mirz& Sulaim&n, having returned from his pilgrimage to Mecca,
once more tried his fortune in Badakhsh&n ; but he was unable
to contend against 'Abdu-lla Kb&n Uzbek, and fled to Kabul.
From thence he went to Hindust&n, and was received by the
Emperor in the month of Babi'u-1 awwal, 995 h.
Thirty'third year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Monday, 23rd
Rabi'u-l &khir, 996 h. (11th March, 1688). [Featival of New
Tear* 8 DayJ]
Kunwar M&n Singh completely subdued Jal^a the sectary,
^ ** Next day the heretics assembled in great force, and howling all night and day
like jackals, they kept up a fight in all directions. At this crisis M&n Singh's brother,
M&dh(i Singh, who was stationed at Ohind with Isma'il Kuli Kh&n, arrired with a
strong force to the assistance of his brother. The Afgh&ns then fled, and nearly
2000 were killed."— Bad&6ni, vol. ii. p. 365.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
466 mzjcmj'j> din ahmad.
so that he could no longer make any resistance, and was com-
pelled to take flight towards Bangash. 'Abdu-1 Matlab Kh&n,
and * * were sent after him with a detachment to Bangash.
Jal&la deceived the royal commanders, and gathering a nnmeronB
force around him, he satacked them, and a fierce battle ensued.
But the rabble were defeated and put to flight, and many of
them were killed.
In this year a son was bom to Prince Salim by the daughter
of B&J& Bhagw&n D4s. \_Ee;oicing8.^
Campaign against Sihwdn,
In this year S&dik Kh&n, the governor of Bhakar, under orders,
proceeded to attack the country of Tatta. He besieged the fort
of Sihwdn, and J&ni Beg, ruler of Tatta, grandson of Muham-
mad B&ki Tarkh&n, following the humble practice of his an-
cestors, sent envoys with suitable gifts to the Imperial CJourt.
The Emperor took compassion on him, and sent a farmdn to
Sidik Kh&n, saying, " I bestow the country upon J4ni Beg.
Withdraw from its occupation." On the 25th Zi-1 ka'da the
envoys of J&ni Beg received leave to depart ; and to show them
greater honour, Hakim 'Afnu-1 Mulk was sent with them, and
they received many princely gifts.
At the beginning of Babi'u-s s&ni the government of E&bul
was given to Zain Kh&n Koka, and Eaj& M&n Singh was re-
called to Court. At the end of the same month Eh&n-kh&n&n
Mirzd Kh&n made a rapid journey from Gujar&t with 'Azdu-d
daula, and was most graciously received. On the 28th Kajab
Sadik Eh&n came from Bhakar. M&n Singh arrived in Sha^b&n,
and at the end of the year he was appointed governor of Bih&r,
Hdjipur, and Patna. About the same time the government of
Kashmir was given to Mirzi Yusuf Kh&n Bizwi, and E&sim
Kh&n Mtr-bahr was recalled. S&dik Kh&n was sent to Sw&t
and Bajaur against the Yusufz&is, and the jdgkrH of M&n Singh
at Si&lkot and elsewhere were granted to him. IsniaMI Euli
Kh&n was recalled from Sw&t and Bajaur, and sent to Gujar&t«
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKXT-I AKBAEr, 457
to replace Ealij Kh&n, who was sammoned to Court. The
government of Bih&r and Bengal was conferred on Kunwar M&n
Singh.
Thirtf/'/ourih year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Saturday, 4tli
Jum&da-l awwal, 997 (11th March, 1589). ^The usual festival
of eighteen daysJ] ^
Kalij Kh&n arrived from Gojardt, and was appointed to assist
R&J& Todar Mal^ in Revenue and Civil administration. Hakim
^Ainu-1 Mulk returned from his embassy to Tatta with the
envoys of Jdni Beg Tarkhan, who brought the offerings of the
Beg along with a letter.
On the 22nd Jum&da-s s&ni, 997, the Emperor started to pay
a visit to Kashmir and K&bul. On reaching Bhimbhar,^ at the
beginning of the mountains of Kashmir, he there left the ladies
of the harem with the Prince Mur&d, and went on express. On
the 1st Sha'bdn he reached Srinagar, where he remained some
days, visiting the city and neighbourhood. When the rainy
season came on, letters were sent for the ladies of the harem and
Prince Mur&d to go to Eohtds, and there await his return. Amir
Fathu-lla ShirazI ['Azdu-d daula] died in Kashmir, to the great
sorrow of the Emperor. Shaikh Faizi wrote an elegy upon
him. • *
On the 27th Bamazdn the Emperor started for Kabul by way
of Pakhali and the fort of Atak. Abu-1 Fath, one of Hia
Majesty's friends and companions, died at Dhamtaur, and was
buried at Hasan Abddl. Prince Mur&d and the ladies, by com-
mand of the Emperor, came up to Atak from Rohtas. Here
Sh&hbaz Khdn Kambu was sent against the remaining Afghdns.
His Majesty then crossed the Indus, and proceeded on to Kdbul,
1 Bad&tini (rol. ii. p. 365) places some of the following eTonts in the thirty-third
year.
s « Wlio had grown old and stupid, and had lately received a wound from a sabre
at the hands of an enemy who lay in ambush for him.'*— Bad&iinf, vol. ii. p. 365.
3 " Which the people of Kashmir call Kfiji-dfcr/*— -4 A^ar-wdwo, vol. iii. p. 563.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
468 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
where he arrived on the 22Dd Zi-1 ka'^^a. Hakim Hum£in and
Mir Sadr Jah&n, ivho h&d been sent on an embassy to M&war&u-n
nahr, now returned, bringing with them an ambassador from
'Abdu-Ila Kh&n, who was the bearer of a letter and presents.
His Majesty spent two months at K&bul, often visiting the
gardens and places of interest. All the people of K&bal, noble
and simple, profited by his presence.
Here intelligence reached him that R&j& Todar Mai wdkUu-s
saltanat^ and mushrif-i diicdiif and K&j& Bhagw&n D&s amiru^l
umard, had died at Lahore.^ On the 8th Muharram, 998, the
Emperor started on his return * to Hindust&n. leaving the govern-
ment of K&bul in the hands of Muhammad K&sim Mir-bahr,
with Tokhta Beg K&buli, and ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ several amirs^ aa co-
adjutors. He gave the government of Gujar&t to Mirzd ''Aziz
Muhammad Kokalt&sh Hzam Khdn^ who held the government
of M&lwa.^ He recalled me, Niz&mu-d din Ahmad, the author
of this work, to Court. To Kh&n-kh&u&n he gave Jaunpur
instead of the jdgir which he had held in Gujar&t.^
Thiriy-fifth year of the Reign,
The beginning of this year corresponded with Thursday, 14th
Jum&da-l awwal, 998. \^The usual celebration at LahoreJ]
The author of this work, with his escort of camel-riders,
^ Bad&<iai cannot repress his bitter religious hatred, eTen in recording the deaths
of these faithful serrants of the throne. His words are (toI. ii. p. 371), ** They went
to their everlasting abode in hell." He has some Terses also, conceived in the same
spirit. AbtS-1 Fazl is more generous. Of Todar Mai he says, that " for honesty,
rectitude, manliness, knowledge of business, and administrati?e ability, he was
without a rival in HindQst&n.*' — Akhar-ndma^ vol. iii. p. 595.
' He met with two serious falls on his journey homewards. One at a hyaena hunt ;
the other from a female elephant which was attacked by a furious male. — Akbar»
fidnutt voL iii. p. 597.
' M&lwa was given to Shah&b Kh&n, but 'Azam Kh&n, in spite against his suc-
cessor, wasted the province and laid it desolate [khdk-tiydh) before leaying it.—
Bad&6ni, rol. ii. p. 372.
^ It was at this time that Kh&n-kh&n&n was elevated to the wakdlat or premier-
ship. (This fact should appear in page 597 of toI. iii. of the Lucknow edition of the
Akbar'ttdmOf but there is an omission there of seTeral lines.)
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 459
arrived at Court, having performed the journey^ in twelve
days. He was very kindly received. R&j4 Bhagw&n Das being
dead, his son M&n Singh, one of the great nobles and governor
of fiih&r and Bengal, succeeded to the title of B&j&, and the
Emperor sent him a letter by one of his attendants with a robe
and horse.
*Azam Khdn*8 Campaign in Gujarat
When 'Azam Khan arrived in Gujar&t, he essayed to conquer
the territory of the Skoi? one of th« zaniknddrs of that quarter,
who maintained a numerous body of men. The J4m, in concert
with Daulat Khdn, son of Amm Kh&n, ruler of Junagarh, and
locum tenem of his father, and several other zaminddrs, assembled
nearly twenty thousand horse. "^Azam Kh&n divided his army
into seven divisions, and some severe fighting followed. Saiyid
K&sim B&rha, in command of the advanced force, fought bravely.
Xhw&ja Muhammad Baf[a\ commander of the left, was killed
with some other amirs, old servants of the State. Mir Sharafu-d
din, nephew of Mir Abu Tur&b, was killed with the van. Four
thousand B&jputs fell in the battle. The eldest son and repre-
sentative of the Jdm, with his tcazir^ were among the slain.
Victory declared itself in favour of 'Azam Khdn. The date of
the battle was 6th Shaww&l, 998 h.'
The city of Lahore had been for some years (chand sal) the
royal residence, and many chiefs of that quarter had come to
wait upon the Emperor. But J&ni Beg, of Tatta, although he
had sent letters and tribute, had never come in person to enrol
himself among the supporters of the Imperial throne. Kh&n-
kh&ndn was now appointed governor of Mult&n and Bhakar, and
he was commanded to effect the conquest of Sind and the
Biluchis. In the month of Babfu^s s&ni he was sent on his
enterprise along with * ♦ • and a number of nobles, whose
1 « Six hundred ibw.'*— Bad&&ni, toI. ii. p. 872.
« " Sattantr' by name.— Bad&dnl, vol. ii. p. 373.
B BriggB justly obseires, that as no results followed this ^-rictory," it was most
likely a defeat. — Briggs, Firishta, vol. ii. p. 264.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
460 NIZAHU.B DrK AHMAD.
names are too namerous to record. He had a handred elephants
and a train of artillery. Ehw&ja Muhammad Mukim, an old
servant of the State, was appointed bakhshi. The King of Poets
(Faizi) found the date of this enterprise in the words ^^Kawd-i
Tattar
Thirff/'Sixth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Thursday, 24th
Jum4da-1 awwal, 999 h. (11th March, 1591). \U%ual rejoicings.']
In Shaww&l of this year four servants of the State were
selected to go on missions to the four rulers of the Dakhin. The
King of Poets, Shaikh Faizi, was sent to B&j& 'Ali Khin, the
ruler of A!sir and Burh&npdr. Khw&ja Aminu-d din was sent
to Burh&nutl Mulk, who, supported by the arms of the Imperial
Government, held Ahmadnagar, the seat of his ancestors. Mir
Muhammad Amin was sent to 'Adil Kh&n, the ruler of Bij4pur ;
and Mir Mirzd to Kutbu-1 Mulk, the ruler of Grolconda. Shaikh
Faizi received directions to proceed to Burh&nu-l Mulk after
having terminated his own mission.
On the 28th Zi-1 hijja Prince Sh&h Mur&d, better known by
his cognomen, ^'Pah&ri Jiu," was appointed to the Government
of M&lwa, receiving the standard, kettle-drums, the iaman, the
tugh banner, and all the insignia pertaining to a prince royal.
Isma'il Kuli Kh&n was appointed to be his vakii (general
manager), and * ♦ were also sent to serve under him. When
the Prince reached Gw&lior, he found that Madhukar, zaminddr
of Undachah, who held a prominent position among the B&j&s of
these parts, on account of his numerous adherents, had seized
upon ^eparganas of Gw&lior. So the Prince resolved to chas-
tise him. Madhukar assembled his numerous forces to resist,
but he was defeated in battle,^ and obliged to fly into the jungles
and hills.' All his territory was ravaged, and then his son.
Ram Ghandar, who was his eldest son and representative, came
* In the Ticinity of Narwar.— Bad&6ui, vol. ii. p. 378.
* Where he died a natural deaih.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBARf. 461
humbly to beg for mercy, and to be admitted a subject of the
Imperial throne. He waited on the Prince, and presented a
large tribute, and the Prince sent him to the Emperor, who,
when he arrived, granted him pardon for his offences. The
Prince took up his residence at TJjjain.
'Azam Kh&n, after his victory over the J&m, remained for a
time at Ahmad&b&d, and then resolved upon the conquest of
Surath and the fort of Junagarh. Daulat Ehan, son of A min
Kh&n, who had succeeded his father as chief, had been wounded
in a battle with the J&m, and was dead. Having determined upon
this campaign, 'Azam Khkn proceeded to the country. The son
of Daulat Eh&n, with his father's ministers, took refuge in the
fortress (of Junagarh) and temporized. But when they found
matters going ill with them, the ministers begged for mercy, and
brought the youth to ^Azam Kh&n, presenting the keys of the
fortress, and professing their allegiance. This conquest was
effected on the 5th Zi-l kaMa.
^ Kh&n-kh&ndn, who marched to conquer Tatta, laid siege to
the fortress of Sihw&n. J&ni Beg, with all the zaminddra of
that country, came with ghrdbs and boats armed with artillery,
to give battle. Kh&n-kh&ndn raised the siege, and marched
forwards. When he arrived at Nasrpur, there was a distance of
seven kas between the rival forces. J&ni Beg advanced to battle
with more than a hundred ghrdbs and two hundred boats {khhtf)
foil of archers, gunners, and large guns. Kh4n-kh&ndn, although
he had only twenty-five ghrdbs^ went to meet him, and the fight
began. The battle went on for a night and a day, but victory at
length declared in favour of the Imperial arms. J&ni Beg had
two hundred men killed in his ghrdbs, seven ghrdbs were taken,
and the rest made off. This battle was fought on the 26th
Muharram, 1000 H. After his defeat, J&ni Beg withdrew to a
spot* on the banks of the river, which was flanked by water
1 See Vol. I. p. 248.
' Firishta traniicribes this account, bat here he uses the more specific word bhti, a
naze or promontory. Briggs renders the passage by a paraphrase, '^ on a spot of
ground surrounded by a swamp, which was flooded at high water."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
462 NIZiCMU-D DfN AHMAD.
and morasses {chihla)} Here he entrenched his force. Eh&n-
kh&n&n raised batteries before it, and besieged it for two months.
During this time the Emperor sent 150,000 rupees, then 100,000
rupees, then 100,000 inans of grain, with several* large guns
and many gunners, to reinforce Khan-kh&n&n. He also sent
II&J& K&I Singh, a noble of four thousand, by the route of
Jesalmir.
Thirty-BBventh year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with Saturday, 6th
Jum&da-l dkhir, 1000 h. \U8tMl rejoicings at LahareJ]
Jal&Ia the sectary, who had fled to 'Abdu-Ua Khan [in
Badaklish^], now returned, and again engaged in revolt and
robbery. On New Year's Day Ja'far Beg A^saf Kh4n, the bakhshij
was named to lead an army against him in communication with'
Muhammad Kasim Kh&n, governor of K&bul. I, the author,
was appointed to the post of bakhshi. At the end of Sha'ban,
Zain Kh&n Eoka, who had been sent to settle the country of
Sw&t and Bajaur, and to root out those Afgh&ns who had escaped
the sword, was ordered to march and exterminate Jal&la.
On the 24th Shawwal, agreeing with 12th Amurd&d of the
37th year of the reign, the Emperor set off hunting to the banks
of the Ghin&hf on the way to Kashmir. He passed the R4vi,
and stayed for five days, enjoying himself in the garden of R&m
D&s. From thence he made a march of three kos. Then he ap-
pointed Kalij Kh&n and Mota R&j& to take charge of affairs at
Lahore. As it was now the rainy season, and the waters were
out, he left Prince Salim to march on slowly with the camp,
while he hastened on with his hunting attendants to the Chin&b.
Here he received intelligence that Y&dg&r, nephew of Mirz&
Yusuf Kh&n Bizwi, governor of Kashmir, had conspired with
some disaffected Kashmiris, and having raised the standard of
revolt, had assumed the title of Sult&n. Kazi 'Ali, the diwdn
1 See Vol. I. p. 249.
' Bad&6ni (?ol. iL p. 379) specifies the number as * one hundred.*
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 463
of Kashmir, and Husain Beg Shaikh Umari, the collector
{tahsilddr-i akhrdj)^ attacked him with their men, but K&zi 'AH
was killed, and Husain Beg was glad to escape half dead ^ to
R&jauri. His Majesty sent Farid Bakhsh with a party of amirs^
such as ♦ ♦ ♦, and a thousand Badakhshdni Aimak horsemen,
into Kashmir. He himself crossed the Ghin&b, and waited there
for a while hunting, until Prince Salim came up with the camp.
Kh&n-kh&n&n had besieged J&ni Beg for two months. Every
day there was fighting, and loss on both sides. The Sindians
had got possession of the roads, and prevented the passage of
provisions. Grain had consequently become very scarce, and
bread exceedingly dear. Kh&n-kh&n&n had no resource but to
move away, so he set off towards the pargana of Jun, near Tatta.
But he sent a portion of his force, under Saiyid Bah&u-d din
Bukh&^i ♦ *, Mir Muhammad Ma'sum Bhakari, and other of
his officers, to invest Sihw&n. J&ni Beg, assuming Sihwan force
to be weak in numbers, marched against, it. When Kh&n-
kh&n&n heard of this movement, he sent off with all possible
speed Daujat Kh&n Lodi, Khw&ja Muhammad Hakim BakhsM^
Dhard son of B&j& Todar Mai, Dal Bait the son of Eai Singh,
and * ♦ to reinforce the Sihw&n division. This detachment
marched eighty kos in two days, and effected a junction.
Next day J&ni Beg came up and arrayed his army. Danlat
Khdn also made his dispositions. His force amounted to only
two thousand, while 'J&ni Beg had more than five thousand.
But confident in the Imperial good fortune, they went into battle.
B&J& Todar Mai's son Dh&ru fought most bravely, and was
killed. The wind of victory blew upon the royal standards, and
J&ni Beg flew towards the banks of the river. He stopped at
the village of Unarpur,* on the banks of the river, and again
entrenched himself. Kh&n-khdndn upon his side, and the Sihwan
force upon the other, bore down upon him and besieged him.
There was fighting every day. At length Jdni Beg's men were
reduced to eat their horses and camels, and many were killed
1 Through the passes of Kashmir. « Var. "Ambarptlr."
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464 NIZAMU-D DIN AHMAD.
every day by the fire of the guns and muskets. J4ni Beg was
compelled to make an offer of capitulation, and to promise to go
and wait upon the Emperor. He begged for the period of three
months to make preparations for his journey, and this was con-
ceded. It being the rainy season, Kh&n-kh&n&n remained in the
village of Sann, in the vicinity of Sihw&n, for that time. The
fort of Sihw&n was surrendered, and J&ni Beg gave his daughter
in marriage to Mirz&.fraj, son of Kh&n-khdn&n. He also sur-
rendered twenty ghrdba.
The intelligence of this victory gave the Emperor great joy,
as he deemed it a good augury of his success in Kashmir. He
then continued his journey to Kashmir, and when he arrived
near Bhimbhar, which is at the beginning of the mountain
passes, he received intelligence that his army, having made five
or six marches in the mountains, had been attacked by a force of
Kashmiris and men belonging to Y&dgdr, who had blockaded
the pass of Kartal.^ But these men were unable to hold their
ground against the brave soldiers of the army, and took to flight.
Y&dg&r came up as &r as Hamirpur with a large force to oppose
the progress of the royal army ; but in the course of the night
a party of Afgh&ns and Turkom&ns belonging to Mirz& Yusuf
Kh&n fell upon him and put him to death. Three days after-
wards his head was brought to the Emperor, and was exposed as
a warning. The Emperor^s good fortune thus secured an easy
victory for him. It was a curious coincidence, that the day on
which the Emperor crossed the river of Lahore to proceed to
Kashmir, was the day on which Y&dg&r broke out in rebellion
and caused the khutba to be read in his name.
On the 23rd Zi-1 hijja, the Emperor left Prince D&niy&I behind
in charge of the ladies of the harem^ because he was not well, and
he was directed to proceed with them to the fort of Boht&s. The
Emperor himself went on rapidly to Kashmir, taking me with
him in attendance. On the 8th Muharram, 1001, he reached
1 Thia is a very doubtfiil name, see tuprd^ p. 454. It is written Ai-Sy AjS
Jjj^, and Jj^.
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TABAKAT-I AKBABf. 465
Kashmir, and stayed there eight days, riding about and hunting
water-fowl. He conferred the government of Kashmir on Mirza
Yusuf Kh&n Kizwi, and left a number of officers with him, such
as * *. On the 6th Safar he started on his return journey, and,
embarking in a boat, he proceeded towards B&ra-mtila, on the
confines of Kashmir, on the way to Pakhali. On the road he
saw a reservoir called Zain-lankd. This reservoir is inclosed on
the west, north, and south, by mountains, and it is thirty ko8 in
circumference. The river Behut (Jilam) passes through this
lake. Its water is very pure and deep. Sultdn Zainu-1 ^dbidin
carried out a pier of stone to the distance of one jarih into the
lake, and upon it erected a high building. Nothing like this lake
and building is to be found in India. After visiting this edifice,
he went to B&ra-mula, where he disembarked,, and proceeded by
land to Pakhali. When he reached that place, there was a heavy
fall of snow and rain. From thence he went on rapidly to
Boht&s. I, the author of this history, and ♦ * were ordered to
follow slowly with the ladies of the harem. It is a curious fact,
that when the Emperor started on his return from Kashmir, he
observed, "It is forty years since I saw snow, and there are
many men with me, born and bred in Hind, who have never seen
it. If a snow-storm should come upon us in the neighbourhood
of Pakhali, it would be a kind dispensation of Providence." It
occurred just as His Majesty expressed his wish. On the 1st
Babi'u-1 awwal he reached the fort of Boht&s, and there rested.
On the I3th he started for Lahore, the capital, and on the 6th
Babi'u-s sani he arrived there.
Intelligence here reached him that B&ja Man Singh had fought
a great battle with the sous of Katlu Afgh&n, who, since his death,
had held the country of Orissa, and, having defeated them, he had
annexed that extensive country which lies beyond Bengal to the
Imperial dominions.
Thirty-eighth year of the Reign.
The beginning of this year corresponded with the 17th
Jum&da-s s&ni, 1001 (11th March, 1593). [^Rejoi^iirya.']
VOL. T. 30
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466 NIZAMU-D BfN AHMAD.
In the midst of the rejoicings, on the 24th Jumada-s s&ni,
Eh&n-kh&n&n arrived with J&ni Beg, the ruler of Tatta, and
was graciously received, Sh4h Beg Kh&n, and * * other amirs
who had taken part in this campaign, also presented themselves
at Court, and were suitably rewarded, with jdffirs, increase of
allowances, and promotion.
At the time when the fort of Junagarh and the country of
Surath were subdued and annexed to the Imperial dominions,
Sult&n Muzaffar Gujar&ti, who was in that part of the country,
fled and betook himself to Khang&r, the zaminddr of the country
of Kach. 'Azam Kh&n attacked Khang&r and ravaged some of
his territories. This induced him to proffer his own allegiance,
and to make Muzaffar a prisoner. Under this arrangement the
son of 'Azam Kh&n made a sudden unexpected attack upon the
place where Muzaffar was staying, and took him prisoner. As
they were going along, Muzaffar made an excuse for retiring into
privacy, and then cut his throat with a razor so that he died.
His head was then cut off and sent to 'Azam Eh&n, who sent it
on to the Emperor.
One hundred and twenty elephants, taken by R4j& M4n
Singh in Orissa, now arrived at Court, and were presented to
the Emperor. 'Azam Kh&n Mirza 'Aziz Koka had now been
absent from Court ten years, so 9, farmdn was written calling
him to Court, to receive the marks of royal approbation. Mean-
while some mischief-makers had reported to the Kh&n some
unkind words which the Emperor was said to have used regard-
ing him.^ So on the 1st Rajab he embarked in a ship with his
sons and family, and sailed for Hijj&z. When the Emperor was
informed of this, he gave the country of Gujar&t to Prince Sh4h
Mur&d, and a farmdn was issued directing him to proceed from
Malvva to Gujarat. Muhammad S&dik Kh&n, one of the great
nobles, was appointed his vak'il^ and the sarkdrs of Surat, Broach
and Baroda, were assigned to him in jdgir.
On the 21st Amurd&d of the 38th year of the reign, agreeing
^ He had long entertained the desire of going to Mecca.
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TABAKAT-I AKBAHf. 467
with 14th Zi-1 ka'da, 1001 h., Zain Eh&n Koka and Asaf Eh&n,
who had been sent to chastise the Afgh&ns of Sw&t and Bajaur,
and to repress Jal&la the sectary, killed a great many of them,
and sent the wives and family of Jal&Ia and of Wahdat 'Ali, his
brother, with all their friends, nearly four hundred^ in number, to
Court.
On the 29th Zi-1 ka'da the government of M&Iwa was given to
Mirz& Sh&h Bukh ; and Sh&hbdz Khan E^mbd, who had been
three years in prison, was released, and appointed to be the vakii
and general manager of the affairs of M&Iwa, under Sh&h Bukh.
On the 12th Muharram, 1002, Mirz& Eustam,»son of Sult&n
Husain Mirz4, son of Sahram^ son of Sh&h Isma'il Safawi
(Sh&h of Persia), who held the government of Zamin-d&war,
came to bring a complaint to the Emperor, accompanied by his
sons and family. \_Grand reception.'] The Emperor presented
him with a krar of tankas, made him a panj-hazdriy^ and gave him
Mult&n in jdgir.
At this. time the Prince of Poets, Shaikh Faizi, returned from
his mission to B&j& 'Ali Kh&n and Burh&nu-l Mulk Dakhini.
Mir Muhammad Amin, Mir Munir, and Aminu-d din also
returned from their missions to the different rulers of the
Dakhin. Burhdnu-l Mulk had received favours and assistance
from His Majesty, but now he did not send suitable tribute, nor
did he act in a grateful and becoming way. His tribute did not
exceed fifteen elephants, some fabrics of the Dakhin, and a few
jewels. So the Emperor determined to effect the conquest of the
Dakhin, and on the 21st Muharram he appointed Prince D&niy&l
to command the invading army. Khdn-khdnan, Rdi Singh,* Rai
Bil, Hakim 'Ainu-1 Mulk, and other amirs of Malwa, And Jdgir*
ddrs of the subda of Ajrair and Dehli, were appointed to attend
him. Seventy thousand horse were ordered on this campaign.
* Badktini (vol. ii. p. 888) gives the incredible number of ** 14,000."
* He was unable to maintain himself in Zamin-d&war against the enmity of his
brother and the increasing power of the Uzbeks.
' A commander of 6000.
^ Whom one might call R&i Sag, says Bad&Qni (vol. ii. p. 389), sag meaning dog.
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468 NIZAMU-D DfN AHMAD.
The Emperor himself went out with them, hunting as he went, as
far as the river of Sultdnpur, thirty-five ko9 from Lahore. Kh&n-
kh&n&n, in attendance upon Prince D&niyal,^ had come as £Ekr as
Sirhind, and was summoned to hold a Council with the Emperor.
He joined the royal party at Shaikhupur, and the campaign in
the Dakhin was re-considered. Eh&n-kh&n&n was now ordered
to proceed on the service alone, without troubling Prince
D&niyal. An order was published that the army of the Dakhin
was to serve under Kh&n-kh&n&n, and Prince D&niy&l was re-
called. With high marks of favour Kh&n-kh&nILn commenced
the march. He took leave of the Emperor at ^ra, and His
Majesty returned, hunting as he went, to the capital Lahore.
I have thus written a history of the occurrences of the reigu
of the Emperor Akb&r, as perfect as my poor pen can accomplish^
up to the thirty-eighth year of his reign. If life is spared, and
grace is given to me, I will, please God, also record the events of
days to come, so that my volume may be completed.
Husain Khan Tukriya,^
He was called Tukriya^ from the fact of his having issued an
order, when he was Governor of Lahore, to the effect that
Hindus should bear on their shoulders a discriminating mark,
which being called in Hindi, Tukri^ obtained for him the nick-
name of Tukriya, He was nephew and son-in-law of Im&m
Mahdi E&sim Kh&n, and was a mamabddr of 2000. He died
A.H. 983.3
^ The Prince at this time married a daughter of Eh&n-kh&n&n. — Bad&t&Df, toL ii.
p. 389.
' These two Extracts are from the biographical portion of the work, which comet
in at the end of the reign of Akbar. They appeared in the old Vol. of 1849.
> Some of the proceedings of this enthusiast will be found in the following Extracts
from Badliiini itifrd, p. 496. The Ma-dsiru'l Umard tells ns that this order' was
issued in consequence of his having one day saluted a Hindti, who passed by with
a long beard, the distinctive mark of a Musulm&n. We do not learn whether this
edict was approved or annulled. In the decline of the republic, when a similar
measure was proposed at Rome with respect to the slaves, a wise man exclaimed,
** quantum periculum immiueret, si servi nostri numerare nos coepissent I" Seneca,
J)e Clementiaf i. p. 24.
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TABAKAT-I AKBAKr. 469
Mir Fathu-lla Shirdxi.
In the year 990 h., corresponding with the 26th of the lldhi,
the Amir arrived at Court from the Dakhin, and was received with
royal favour. He was directed, in conjunction with the ministers,
to revise the system of administration, and to inquire into the
management of the civil and revenue administration.^ On this
duty he was engaged for many years, and, in token of the King's
satisfaction, was honoured with the title of 'Azdu-d daulah. He
was a very learned man, and was better versed in every kind of
knowledge, theoretical and practical, than any man in Ehur&s&n,
'Ir&k, or Hmdust&n. In short, in the whole world he was with-
out a rival. He was also an adept in the secret arts of magic
and enchantment. For instance, he made a windmill which pro-
duced flour by a self;generated movement. ♦ ♦ ♦ In Kashmir,
he departed for the land of eternity in the year 997 H.
Sulfdn MahmM Khan of Multdn.^
A few days after, Sult&n Mahmud assembled an army, and
marched on Shor,^ when J&m B&yazid, leading out 'Alam Kh&n,
with the general consent of his followers, advanced to the
distance of twenty miles from Sher to meet him. When he
reached the B&vi, he halted, and sent a letter to Daulat Kh&n
Lodi, acquainting him with the particulars of the movement.
Upon receipt of this intelligence, Daulat Kh&n LodI, at the head
of the Panj&b forces, came to the assistance of J&m B&yazid
before the conflict was at an end, and despatched a confidential
person to Sult&n Mahmud, to enter into a negociation for peace.
At last, through his mediation, a peace was arranged, under the
^ These Extracts are from the separate history of MuUkn. They were printed ia
the old Vol. of 1849.
* Shor, or Shorkote, is twenty-iix miles north of Tolamba, and on the road from
that place to Jhang. Among the extensive mins of this place, the most remarkable
is a monnd of earth, surronnded by a brick wall, and high enough to be seen from,
a circuit of nx or eight miles. Native tradition represents it to be the capital of a
E&J& of the name of Shor, who was conquered by a king from the west.— Burne«,
Bokhara, yol. iii. p. 131.
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470 NIZiTMU-D DIN AHMAD.
terms of which the B&vi was to be the bonndary. Daulat Kb&u
then sent Sult£n Mahmud back to Malt&n, and J&m B&yazid to
Shor ; after which, he himself proceeded to Lahore.
Notwithstanding that the terms of peace had been adjusted by
so wise a man as Daulat Kh&n, yet it did not endure long. In
the interim, Mir J&kir Zaud,^ with his two sons, named Mir
Ilahd&d and Mir Shahdad, came to Multan fiom Mavi. It was
Mir Shahdad that introduced the principles of the Shi'a creed
into Mult&n.
As the Lang&h family had great respect for Malik Suhr&b
Dud&ri, Mir J&kir Zand could not remain in Mult&n. He there-
fore sought the protection of J&m B&yazid, who treated him
with respect, and was pleased to grant a portion of his private
domain for the support of the Mire's &mily.
J&m B&yazid was a man of beneficent character and of generous
spirit, and was particularly anxious to promote the interests of
the learned and virtuous. He is said to have sent their pensions
to Mult&n from Shor, even during the period of actual hostilities.
His generosity towards men of talent was so notorious, that
many persons of distinction quitted their homes and took up
their abode at Shor. He earnestly invited many others to resort
to that place, and among them Maul&n& 'Azizu-Ua, pupil of
Maul&n& Fathu-lla, whom he urgently pressed to come. On
his approach to Shor, J&m B&yazid received him with mucli
honour, conducted him to his private apartments, and ordered
his servants to pour water over the Maul&n&'s hands, and then,
by way of a blessing, to sprinkle the same water on the four
corners of his house.
There is a curious anecdote concerning; the Maul&n& and Shaikh
Jal&Iu*d din Kuraishi, mkil of J&m B&yazid, which, though
not much to the purpose of this history, is yet here recorded for
an example, and as an awakening from the sleep of neglect.
^ This agrees with the name as given by Briggs, but in the original of Firithta it
is Mir 'Im&d Gnrdezf. In many other respects there is a great difference betwen the
original and translation , and it is evident that the translator must hare used a different
manuscript in this portion of his work.
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TABAKAT-I AKBAEf. 471
It is this: — When the J4in received the Mauldn& with such
anusual distinction, and took him into his private apartments,
the Shaikh sent to the Maul&n&, and told him that J&m
B&yazid had given him his compliments, and desired that the
Maul&n& should select for himself one of the slave-girls who had
been ordered to attend him. The Maul&n& sent one of his own
servants to J&m B&yazid, and said in reply, ** God forbid that a
man should ever look upon the women of his friend ; moreover,
such sentiments are unworthy of my advanced age.*** Jdm
B&yazid replied that he had no knowledge of the imputed
message. The Maulana being much embarrassed at this, cursed
the person that sent the message to him, saying, '' May his neck
be broken ! ^^ and returned to his home without even seeing J&m
Bayazid, who was not informed of his departure until he had
actually left his dominions. It so happened that the curse of the
Mauldnd took effect ; for after Shaikh Jal&lu-d din c^ame to Shor,
having deserted the service of Sult&u Sikandar, he chanced one
night to miss his footing, when he fell from an upper storey with
his head downwards, and literally broke his neck.
After the conquest of the Panj&b in 930 H. by the late
Zahiru-d din Muhammad B&bar B&dsh&h Gh&zi, that monarch,
at the time of his return to Dehli, sent a commission to Mirz&
Sh&h Husain Arghun, governor of Tatta, ordering him to take
charge of Mult&n and its neighbouring districts. He accord-
ingly crossed the river near the fort of Bhakkar, and marched
towards MuIt&n with a large army. The wind of the divine
wrath began to blow, and a great flood arose. When information
of this reached Sult&n Mahmud, he trembled. Then he collected
all his forces, and advanced to the distance of two days'* journey
from the city of Mult&n. He sent Shaikh Bah&u-d din Kuraishi,
successor to the celebrated Shaikh Bah&du-d din Zakariy& (may
God sanctify his sepulchre !), as an ambassador to Mirz& Sh&h
Husain, and appointed Maul&n& Bablol, who was noted for the
grace of his eloquence, as well as the elegance of his ideas, to
accompany the Shaikh. The Mirz& received them with much
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472 NIZAMXT.D DIN AHMAD.
honour, and said that he had come with the view of chastising
Sult&n Mahmud, and of visiting Shaikh Bah&a-d din Zakariy&'s
tomb. The Maiil&n& stated that it would suffice if the chastise-
ment of Sult&n Mahmud were effected at a distance, in the same
manner as the Prophet had mentally admonished Awais Earn,
and that Shaikh Sah&u-d din was already come to his presence, in-
asmuch as he himself was the representative of Zakariyi, and that
there was therefore no need of his troubling himself to proceed
any further. They were, however, unsuccessful in accomplishing
the objects of their interview, and returned to the Sult&n, who
died suddenly in the same night, poisoned, it is said, by Langar
Khdn, one of his slaves. He died a.h. 933, after a reign of
twenty-seven years.
Respecting Suttdn Sttsain, son of Sultan Mahmud o/MuUdn.
After the death of Sult&n Mahmud, Eaw&m Kh&n Lang&h
and Langar Kh&n, who were the commanders of Sult&n Mah-
mud's army, deserted their king, and joined Mirz& Sh&h Husain
Arghun, and having met with a kind reception from him, they
subsequently took possession of the different towns of Mult&n in
the name of the Mirzd, while the remaining Lang&h chiefs,
confounded at this intelligence, hastened to Mult&n, and pro-
claimed the son of Sult&n Mahmud as king, under the title of
Sult&n Sh&h Husain, and read the khutha in his name — though
he was but a child. But he was king only in name, for Shaikh
Shuj&''u-1 Mulk Bukh&ri, son-in-law of Sult&n Mahmtid, as-
suming the office of wazir^ secured to himself all the regal power.
By the advice of this inexperienced man, they took refuge in
the fort, which had scarcely one month's provisions in it \ while
Mirz& Sh&h Husain, deeming the death of Sult&n Mahmud a
most convenient opportunity for the conquest of the country,
immediately laid siege to the fort.
After a few days, the garrison finding the provisions of the
fort were consumed, and that they were about to perish, came to
Shaikh Shuj&'u-l Mulk, who was the cause of his country's
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKAT.I AKBARf. 473
disasters, and solicited his permission to divide their forces and
give the enemy battle, representing at the same time that they
had still some yigoar left, that their horses were fresh, and that
•it was not improbable that the gale of victory might incline to
their, side ; and that to remain inactive and beleagaered as they
were was expedient only when there was some hope of receiving
succoar from without, —which was not at all a probable con-
tingency in their case.
The Shaikh did not make any reply, but retiring to a private
apartment, he invited the attendance of some of the chiefe, and
said, that as the sovereignty of Sh&h Hosain Lang&h had not as
yet been well established, he was afraid, lest most of their men,
on making a sally from the fort, should take the opportunity to
desert, and join Mirz& Sh&h Husain, in hope of receiving a
favourable reception, and that the small remnant who had regard
for their reputation, and who would make a stand, would be
slain. Maul&n& Sa'du-lla of Lahore, a learned man of that
time, who was in the fort of Mult&n on this occasion, relates
that a few months after the siege had commenced, when all the
avenues of the fort were closed by the enemy, and no one was
able to enter for the purpose of rendering assistance, or go out
for the purpose of escaping his doom (for the attempt was at-
tended with certain destruction), the garrison were at last reduced
to such extremities, as to be compelled to consume dogs and cats,
which were partaken of with as much avidity as if they had
been the choicest goats and lambs. The protection of the fort
was committed by Shaikh Shuj4'u-1 Mulk to the charge of a
vagabond, named J&du, who had three thousand militia of the
country under him. That wretch entered all the houses wherever
he had the least expectation of finding grain, and plundered
them so unscrupulously, that the people earnestly prayed for
Shaikh Shuj&'^u-l Mulk's destruction.
At last, the besieged were reduced to so desperate a condition,
that they preferred being killed to a slow death by famine, and
they accordingly threw themselves down from the walls of the
Digitized by VjOOQIC
474 KIZAMU-D DfK AHMAD.
fort into the ditch. Mirz& Sh&h Hasain« being aware of their
distress, refrained from killing them. After a siege of one year
and several months, his men, one night towards the dawn,
entered the fort, and made great slaughter. All the inhabitants
between the age of seven and seventy were taken prisoners.
They treated most oppressively all the citizens on whom there
was the least suspicion of possessing wealth, and treated them
with various kinds of indignity. This took place at the close of
A.H. 934.
Maul&n& SaMu-lla gives an account of what happened to
himself in the following words.
'^When the fort was captured by the Arghuns, a party of
them entered my house, seized on my father, Maul&nd Ibr&him
J&ma', (who, in studying and teaching various sciences for sixty*
five years, had, in the evening of his life, lost the use of his
sight,) and made him prisoner. Seeing the neatness and comfort
of our house, they suspected that gold was somewhere concealed,
and consequently treated us with great indignity. Another
person came and bound me, and sent me as a present to the
fvazir of the Mirzd. The tcazir was sitting on a wooden platform
in the open area when I reached his house, and he ordered me to
be bound with a chain, of which one end was tied to one of the
feet of the platform. I did not, however, grieve for myself, but
I could not help shedding tears, when I recollected my father's
sad condition.
'^After a while, he called for his escritoire, mended his pen, and
then rose up and went into the house, with the intention of
washing his hands and feet, and praying, before he sat down to
write. There was no one left in the place but myself, so I ap-
proached the platform, and wrote, on the very paper on which
the ti?azir had intended to write, the following verse from an ode
{Bardah) — * Do not your eyes see how I am weeping, and do you
never say, " Weep no more," and does your heart never suggest to
you that you should have pity upon meP^ After which, I
immediately resumed my place, and began to weep. After his
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABAKiCT-I AKBARf. 475
return, when he was jost beginning to write, he saw the lines^
and began to look round to see who might have written them ;
but finding that there was nobody except myself, he wished me
to declare if I had written it, and on my confessing to haye done
so, he inquired more about my affairs, and on hearing my fatber'^s
name, he immediately got up, released me from my fetters, and
having clothed me with a garment of his own, mounted his horse
and proceeded immediately to the diwdn-khdna of the Mirzd,
and introduced me to him. The Mirz& sent some one to search
after my &ther, and to bring him to the presence.
*' The people around the Mirz& were talking upon religious sub-
jects, when my father was respectfully brought to that assembly,
and the Mirz&, after bestowing khila'ts, the one on my father,
the other on myself, encouraged my father to relate to him the
circumstances of his life, and he accordingly related them, not-
withstanding the agitation of his mind. He recounted them
with so much pathos and eloquence, that the auditors were
charmed with him, and the Mirz4 requested the pleasure of his
company, on his return to his own country.
" The Mirz& ordered all of my father's plundered property to be
restored, and that a compensation in money should be given for
that which could not be recovered ; but my father begged to be
excused from accompanying him, saying that he was too old to
undertake such a journey, when the time of his preparing for his
last pilgrimage was so near ; and according to his words he did
die only two months after this occurrence.*"'
When the fort was captured, the Mirz& committed Sult&n
Husain to the custody of an oflBcer, and treated Shaikh Shuj4'u-1
Mnlk Bukh&rl with various indignities, and a large sum of
money was daily exacted from him. The country of Mult&n
had by this time been much devastated, so that there was no
hope of its attaining its former prosperity ; but the Mirzd, never-
theless, not thinking its restoration so very difficult, left the
country in charge of Khwdja Shamsu-d din, with Langar £h&n
to assist him^ and he himself returned to Tatta. Under the
Digitized by VjOOQIC
476 KIZAMU-D DTN AHMAD.
jadicious management of Langar Kh&n, the country was again
populated, and he subsequently turned out the Kbw&ja, with
the assistance of the people, and made himself master of the
country.
After the death of B&bar, Hum&yun succeeded to the throne
of Hindustan, and bestowed the Panj&b in jdffir upon Mirz&
E&mr&n, who sent a message to Langar Kh&n requesting his
attendance, and on the Kh&n's waiting upon him at Lahore, he
was pleased to confer on him the country of P&bal in exchange
for Mult&n. In the end, the King assigned as his residence a
place at Lahore, now known by the name of D&ira Langar Kh&n,
which is one of the most celebrated quarters of Lahore. From
this time forward Mult&n again came under the dominion of the
Kings of Dehli. After the death of Mirz& K&mr&n, it passed to
Sher Kh&n (Sher Sh&h), from Sher Eh&n to Salim Eh&n (Isl&m
Sh&h), and from him to the officers of His Majesty Akbar, all
which changes have been mentioned in their respective places.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
477
XLI.
MUNTAKHABU-T TAWABrKH;
OB,
TARfKH-I BADXlTfir
OP
MULLi!^ 'ABDU-L KADIB BADXl/Nf.
This history, by Mull4 'Abdu-1 Kddir Muluk Sh&h of Badddn,
is called by the author Muntakhabu-t Tawdrikh; but many
others have compiled works under that title, and the name most
frequently given to it in Hindust&n is Tdrikh-i Baddiini,
Is is a general history of India from the time of the Ghazni-
vides to the fortieth year of Akbar ; and, in the reign of the
latter, it is especially useful, as correcting, by its prevalent tone of
censure and disparagement, the fulsome eulogium of the Akbar-
ndma. Despite this systematic depreciation, it has been observed^
that 'Abdu-1 K&dir's narrative conveys a more favourable im-
pression of the character of Akbar than the rhetorical flourishes
of the Court journalist. It concludes with lives of the saints,
philosophers, physicians, and poets of Akbar's reign.
['Abdu-1 K&dir, poetically styled K&diri, was bom at Bad&tin
in 947 or 949 h. His father, whom he lost in 969, was called
Shaikh Muluk Sh&h, and was a pupil of the saint Bechd of
Sambhal. 'Abdu-1 K&dir, or Badduni as he is familiarly called,
studied various sciences under the most renowned and pious men
of his age, most of whom he enumerates in the third volume of
this work. He excelled in music, history, and astronomy ; and
^ Elphinstone, History of India, toI. ii. p. 209. Biographical Dictionary, X. IT. JT.,
Tol. L p. 683. Ma-dsiru-l Kirdm, p. 52 ; Tabakdt-i Shdh-Jahdni, pp. 224, 284 ;
Beale, p. 291 ; Mir-dt^i Jahdn-numd, Inthd-i Nigdr^ndmaf Tabakdt'i Akbari, end of
Dehli soyereigDs.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
478 'ABDU-L KADTE BADAl/Nf.
on account of his beaatifal Yoice he was appointed Coart Imdni
for Wednesdays. Early in life he was introduced to Akbar by
Jal&l Kh&n Kurchi, and for forty years he lived in company
with Shaikh Mub&rak, and Faizi and Abu-1 Fazl, the Shaikh's
sons. But there was no real friendship between them, as Bad&uni
looked upon them as heretics, and his notices of them are coached
in bitter sarcastic terms.] ^ Bad&uni died at the beginning of the
seventeenth century. The TabakdUi Shdh-Jahdni gives a.h.
1024 (1615 A.D.) as the year of his death.
Bad&uni was a very learned man, and was frequently employed
by the Emperor to make translations into Persian from the
Arabic and Sanskrit, as in the case of the Mu^jamu-l BulddUy
Jdmi'u-r JRashidi, and the Rdmdyana ; yet, notwithstanding this
employment, for which he acknowledges he received, in one
present only, 150 gold mohurs and 10^000 rupees, besides a grant
of rent-free land, his distinguished patron receives no favonr at
his hands. He wrote a work on the Badis called Bahm-l asmdry
and he composed a moral and religious work, entitled Najdtu^
Rashid^ which he wrote at the suggestion of his friend Nizama-d
din Ahmad, the historian, and which he must have completed
very late in life, because the Muntakhabu-t Tawdrikh is men-
tioned in it. He also informs us that he translated two out of
the eighteen sections of the MahdhJidrata^ and abridged a history
of Kashmir, which, under the annals of a.h. 99S, is said to have
been translated from the original Hindi by Mulla Sh&h Maham-
mad Sh&hdb&di,* — but apparently not the Rqjd'tarangini^ for
the translation of that work is usually attributed to Maul&n&
'Im&du-d din. According to Professor H. H. Wilson,' there
were frequent remodellings or translations of the same work, bat
amongst those which he notices he does not mention one by
Mulld Shdh Muhammad Shdhdb&di.*
Many of the translations from the Sanskrit which were made
^ The Editor's additions are almost wholly deriyed from Hr. Blochmann's notioet
in the Xin-i Akbari, vol. i pp. 104, 168.
' lUiuzat'i Tdhirin, ' Asiatic ReseareheB, YoL XT. p, 2.
* See Ain-i Akbari (Blochmann's), vol. i. p. 103.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAHfKH-I BADAITNr. 479
about this period, and those of ^Abda-1 K&dir, probably, among
the rest, appear to have been executed under the superintendence
of Faizf, the brother of the minister Abu-I Fazl, and he is
usually supposed to have been the first Musulm&n who applied
himself to the language and literature of the Brahmins; but
this seems to be a mistake.^
The aversion with which ^Abdu-1 Kadir Bad&uni regarded
the Emperor and his able ministers arose, as he himself frankly
confesses, from his own bigoted attachment to the most bigoted
of religions, in which it was apprehended that Akbar, with their
aid and countenance, was about to introduce some dangerous
innovations.^ He acknowledges, however, that he temporized,
and never hesitated to make his own religious yiews subordinate
to the primary consideration of self-interest [and it is evident
that envy of his fellow-courtiers, and discontent with the amount
of favour bestowed upon his own unappreciated merits, were eyer
present in his mind, and embittered his feelings].
Though the author of the Tdrikh-i Badduni professes to derive
his information chiefly from the Tdrikh-i Mubarak- Shdhi and the
Tabakdt'i AkbaH^'-indeei^ in a passage in the Najdtu-r RaMd^^
he calls his work a mere abridgment of the Tabakdt^ — ^yet, con-
trary to the usual Indian practice, there is much more original
matter in it than such a declaration would lead us to suppose,
and the whole narrative, even when avowedly taken from his
predecessors, is tinged with his peculiar prejudices, of which
many traits will be found in the extracts which are subjoined.
The history ends with the beginning of the year 1004 a.h.
1595-6 A.D. [" The book was kept secret, and according to a state-
ment in the Mir-dtu-l ''dlam^ it was made public during the reign
of Jah&ngir, who showed his displeasure by disbelieving the
statement of Bad&uni's children, that they had been unaware
of the existence of the book. The Tiizak-i Jahdngiri un-
^ See note D. in Appendix.
' [See H. H. Wilflon*B works, vol. ii. p. 379 ; Blochmann'e Ain-i Akbari^ vol. i.
pp. 104, 167; Joum. A«. Soc. Bengal, 1869.] ' MS. (Fol. 26, t.)
Digitized by VjOOQIC
480 'ABDU-L KADIE BADAUNT.
fortunately says nothing about this circumstance ; but Bad&dnrs
work was certainly not known in a.h. 1025, the tenth year of
Jah&ngir*s reign, in which year the Md-dsir-i RaUmi was
written, whose author complains of the want of a history beside
the Tabakdt and the Akbar'ndmay'\ ^
The author gives the following account of his own work :
'' The writer, 'Abdu-l-E&dir Muluk Sh&h Bad&uni, in obedience
to the orders of His Majesty King Akbar, finished the abstract
of the history of Kashmir in the year a.h. 999, which, at the
request of the same monarch, was translated from Hindi into
Persian by one of the learned men of his time ; but as I
cherished a great love for history from my very childhood, and
as it was seldom that my hours were not employed either in the
reading or writing some history, I often thought of compiling a
brief account of the kings of Dehli, beginning from the com-
mencement of the Muhammadan rule in India to the present
time, ♦ ♦ ♦ But circumstances gave me little opportunity of
executing my design, and day after day I encountered numerous
obstacles. Moreover, the scantiness of the means of subsistence
obliged me to leave my country and friends, and thus the per-
formance of the work was for a time suspended, until my excel-
lent and beloved friend ^ Nizfimu-d din Ahmad Bakhshi went to
Paradise. Excellent as is the history composed by this in-
dividual, yet I reflected that some additions could possibly be
made to it; and I accordingly commenced to abstract briefly
the accounts of some of the great kings of India, from the
historical works called Mubarak- Shdhi and Nizdmu-t Tawdrikh
Ntzdmi, sometimes adding my own observations. Great brevity
has been observed in the style, and the use of figurative and
flowery language throughout avoided. I have named this work
Muntakhabu't Tawdrikh. It is hoped that this history, the object
^ Blochmaniif Ain-i Akbari, toI. i. p. 104.
^ Hia wonn friendship for Niz&mu-d din has already been shown at p. 1 81 mpri^
and it appears to have been reciprocated by Niz&mu-d din ; for in a paasage in the
Muntakhabu't Tawdrikh, see infrdf we find that the Bakhshi had no scruple about
j^Ting in false returns, concealing the real cause of the absence of 'Abdul Kfidir.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARIKH-I BADAlTNr. 481
of which has been to place upon record the deeds of the great
Muhammadan kings, and to furnish the means of transmitting
my own reputation to posterity, will rather prove a source of my
lasting happiness, than tend to aggravate my misfortunes.
"As it is my intention to write only what is true, I hope that
God will forgive me, if I should ever allow myself to descend to
the relation of minute and trivial particulars/'
At the conclusion, he says that it was at one time his inten-
tion to have added a history of Kashmir, Gujar&t, Bengal, and
Sind, and an account of the wonders of India ; but as they had
no necessary connexion with the history of the Delili Emperors,
he changed his determination, and concluded his labours, in the
year of the Hijra 1004, and as Niz&mu-d din died in 1003, it
would appear that he was only one year employed upon this
history. But the preface is not very explicit upon this point,
and the meaning must be conjectured.
This is one of the few works which would well repay the
labour of translation ; but it would require a person to bring to
the task a greater degree of knowledge of the Persian language
than most Indian histories demand, as well as a thorough ac-
quaintance with contemporary historians; for' the author not
only uses some uncommon words, but indulges in religious con-
troversies, invectives, eulogiums, dreams, biographies, and details
of personal and family history, which interrupt the unity of the
narrative, and often render it a difficult matter to restore the
broken links of connexion. Nevertheless, it must be confessed,
that these digressions are the most interesting portion of his
work ; for rarely do the other obsequious annalists dare to utter
their own sentiments, especially such as would be ungrateful to a
royal ear, or to confess iheir own errors and foibles, as ^Abdu-1
E&dir does with so much complacency and indiflFerence. His
own extensive knowledge of contemporary history also induces
him very often to presume that his reader cannot be ignorant of
that with which he himself is so intimately acquainted. He con-
sequently slurs over many facts, or indicates them so obscurely,
VOL. V. 81
Digitized by VjOOQIC
482 'ABDU-L KADIB BADAUNr.
as frequently to compel a translator to sapply the omissions
from his own resources and conjectures.
The abstract of Indian history, from the Ghaznivide Emperors
to Akbar — Akbar's history — and the Biographies of holy and
wise men, physicians, and poets— each occupy about one-third
of the volume, as will be seen from the subjoined abstract.^
Almost all the headings have been added on the margin by a
copyist, the author giving very few, except the names of kings
and others whose lives he records ; yet these must be of some
antiquity, as many copies concur in giving them in the same
language and form.
CONTENTS.
Beigns of the Ghaznivide Monarchs, pp. 4-21.
Reigns of the Dehli Monarchs, pp. 21-133.
From Zahiru-d din Muhammad B&bar to Akbar, pp. 134-199.
Jal&lu-d din Muhammad Akbar, pp. 200-403.
Details of Akbar* 8 reign.
Mirzd Sulaim&n K&zi Niz&m Badakhshi, alias E&zi Kh&n,
deputed to negociate peace. — Death of Himun, the grocer, by
the hand of the Emperor. — Kh&n-zam&n's action with Hasan
Kh&n Bachgoti. — Displeasure of Bairam Khan with Pir Mu-
hammad. — Conquest of Gw&lior. — An account of Shaikh
Muhammad Ghaus of Gw&Iior. — Serious complaints to the
Emperor against Khin-kh&nan. — An account of R&m Dfis, the
second T&nsen, and his receiving a present of 9, lac of rupees
from Kh&n-kh&n&n. — ^Birth-place of Amir Khusru. — Pir Mu-
hammad Kh&n drowned. — Arrival of an ambassador from Sh4h
Tahm&sp Safwi.— Death of Muluk Shdh, father of the author.—
Maul&nd 'Al&u-d din L&ri. — Mirzi Mjihammad Hakim, son of
Humdyun B&dsh&h. — Murder of the mother of Mirz& Muham-
mad Hakira. ^Marriage of the Emperor with the widow of
'Abdu-l W48&'.— Death of Shdh Ab6-1 Ma'dli.— Death of Shaikh
Muhammad Ghaus. — Capital punishment of K4zi L41. — ^Fort
^ See Sprenger*8 Biblwg,^ p. 65.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAEfKH-I BADAUNr. 483
of Agra built.— The bard Mah4p4iar.— The fort of Roht&s.—
Mu'izzu-1 Mulk and E&j& Todar Mai pat to flight bj Khdn-
zam&n and Bah&dur Kh&n. — Khdn-zamiu and Bah&dar Kh&n
slain by the hands of the Emperor Akbar. — Capture of the fort
of Chitor. — Mir 'A14u-d daula Kazwinf, author of *' Biographies
of the Poets."— Death of Shaikh Abdu-l 'Aziz of Dehli.—
Reduction of the fort of Bantambhor. — Fathpur.— Saiyid Musd
falls in love with Mohani, a jeweller's daughter. — Death of
Shaikh Gad&i. — Birth of the Emperor Jah&ngir. — Capital
punishment of Mirz& Mukim Isfah&ni. — Death of Shaikh
Salim Chishti. — Conquest of Gujar&t.^ — Bkth of Prince D&niy&l.
— Death of Sult&n MuzafFar Gujar&ti. — Erection of the fort of
Surat, in defiance of the infidels of Faringist&n. — Ibr&him
Husain Mirz& killed. — Capture of the fort of Nagarkot. — Birham
D&s, alias Birbal. — Forced march of the Emperor towards
Gujar&t. — Muhammad Husain Mirzd killed. — Abu-1 Fazl's first
introduction to the Emperor Akbar. — Building of the fort of
Pay&g, and the name of lUah&bds given to it. — Capture of the
forts of Hdjipur and Patna. — Singhdsan Battiai, — The Emperor
goes on foot to visit the sacred sepulchre at Ajmir. — Jal&l Kh&n
killed. — Death of Khw&ja Amind. — Fight of Kh&n-kh&n&n
with D&ud Afghdn, ruler of the territories of Orissa. — Abu-1
Fazl's second introduction to the Emperor Akbar. — Opinions
promulgated by Shaikh Abu-1 Fazl. — Performance of the pilgrim-
age to Mecca discountenanced. — Translation of the Hayatu-l
Haiwdn. — Respecting the legality of temporary marriages. -«
Mul1& Muhammad Yezdi arrives in India. — Translation of the
Atharva Veda. — Fight with Rdnd Sangd. — Kh&n Jah&n fights
D&ud Khdn, who is seized and killed. — Death of Shdh Tahm&sp,
King of Persia. — Death of Sh&h Isma'il the second, and accession
of Sult&n Muhammad, son of Sh&h Tahm&sp. — Fight of Asaf
Kh&n with the R4j& of iTdar. — The EmperoFs indifference to the
Muhamraadan faith. — The ceremony of kissing the ground
established as a mode of obeisanceu — Abu-1 Fazl translates the
Gospel. — Birbal. — Worship of the Sun. — Abu-1 Fazl appointed
Digitized by VjOOQIC
484 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAimr.
as superintendent of the temples of fire-worshippers. — Alterca-
tion between Abu-1 Fazl and the compiler of this work. — Mi&n
T&nsen. — ^Arrival of an ambassador from 'Abda-lla Kh&n Uzbek.
— The presentment made by the learned.— -Muzaffar Kh&n killed
in Bengal. — Death of Hakim Nura-d din. — Arrival of Shaikh
Muthi Afgh&n. — Khwaja Maal&u& Shir&zi, the heretic, who
knew the art of making amulets. — The author of this book,
which is full of malignity, abuses K&ii ^Ali, of Baghd&d.—
Account of an organ. — Murder of Sh&h Mansur. — Controversy
between Muhammadans and Christians. — A tavern built at the
gate of the palace, and orders issued respecting the purchase of
wine, and unlawful acts not prohibited. — Bicgarding certain
jocular sayings. — Orders issued prohibiting the teaching of the
commentaries and traditions. — Death of Makhdumu-1 Mulk and
Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi. — Death of Ghiy&u-d din 'Ali, Aa»£
Kh&n, and Shaikh Jal&l Th&nesari.— Arrival of Mir Fatha-Ua
Shir&zi from the Dakhin. — Orders issued for the compilation of
the Tdrikh'i -4^i. — Translation of the MahdbhdraL — Mikn
Tdnsen. — A brief account of B&m and his wife Sit&. — Marriage
of a daughter of B&ja Bhagw&n with Prince Salim. — Com-
mencement of the second karan. — Death of Mirz& Muhammad
Hakim, son of the Emperor Hum&yun. — Birbal killed. — Fight
with the Boshan&i Afgh&ns. — Death of Abu-1 Ghais Bukh&ri. —
Assassination of the blessed Mull& Ahmad Thattavi by the
merciless sword of an accursed pigling. — Translation of the
Mdmdt/ana. — Death of Sh&h Fathu-lla Shir&zi. — Death of
Hakim Abu-l Fath.— Death of Todar Mai and Bhagw&n D4s.—
Death of Shaikh Wajihu-d din.— Date of the death of Shah&bu-d
din Khdn.— Death of Shaikh Ibr&him Chishti.— Death of TJrfi
Shirazi.— Death of Kazi 'Ali, of Baghd&d, grandson of K4zi
Husain. — Fight of Zain Kh&n with the Boshandi Afghans. —
Death of Shaikh Mubarak N&gori. — Beligious precepts. —
Administrative orders. — Death of Niz&mu-d din Ahmad. —
Death of Shaikh Ya'kub Kashmiri.— Death of Hakim 'Ainu-l
Mulk and Hakim Hasan Gilani. — The SMhndma turned into
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARrXH-I BADAUNr. 485
prose. — Death of Shaikh Faizi, eon of Mub&rak N&gori. —
Death of Hakim Hum&m.
Shaikhs and holy men, thirty-eight persons, pp. 403-434.
Learned men, sixty-nine persons, pp. 434-477.
Physicians, fifteen persons, pp. 477-480.
Poets, one hundred and fifty-three persons, pp. 480-557.
Conclusion, pp. 557-562.
Size — Folio, containing 562 pages, of 23 lines to a page.
The Tdrlkh-i Baddiini is one of the commonest histories to be
met with in India. One of the best copies is in the Asiatic
Society's Library. Other good copies are to be found in Banda,
Lucknow, Kole, and Patna. [The whole of the work has been
published in three volumes in the Bibliotheca Indica, and many
passages have been translated by Mr. Blochmann as notes to his
edition of the Ain-i AkbariJ]
EXTRACTS.
Muhammad TughKk, <
[Text, vol. i. p. 227.] In a.h. 729 Tarmah Shirin^ the
Mughal, brother of Katlagh Ehw&ja Mughal, King of Ehur&s&n,
who had on a previous occasion invaded Hindust&n, advanced
with a large army to the province of Dehli. He captured several
forts, and committed ravages and massacres from Lahore, S&-
m&ua, and Lidri to the confines of Bad&dn, nor did he retreat
till the victorious arms of Isl&m were arrayed against him. The
Sult&n pursued him as far as Kalanor, and leaving Mujiru-d
din Aborj& to dismantle that fortress, he returned towards Dehli.
At this juncture, it occurred to the Sult&n to raise the taxes
of the inhabitants of the Do&b ten or twenty per cent., as they
had shown themselves refractory. He instituted also a cattle-tax,
and a house-tax, and several other imposts of an oppressive
nature, which entirely ruined and desolated the country, and
brought its wretched inhabitants to destruction.
1 " Tannsbarin Kbkn." See Vol. III. p. 460.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
486 'ABDU-L KXDIR BADAUNf.
Ibrahim, son of Sikandar LodL
[Text, vol. i, p. 327.] R&i Bikram&jit, who succeeded his
father Bai M&n Siugh in the possession of Gw41ior, foand
himself unable to withstand the royal troops, and was obliged
to surrender the lofty edifice of Badalgarh,^ one of the forts
dependent on Gwalior, and built by M&n Singh. On this occasion,
a brazen figure which was worshipped by the Hindus fell into the
hands of the Musulm4ns, which they sent to ^ra. Sult&u
Ibr&him forwarded it to Dehli, and placed it before one of the
gates of the city. Ten years before the compilation of this
history, in the year 992, it was brought to Fathptir, where the
compiler of this work saw it. Gongs, and bells, and all kinds of
implements were subsequently manufactured from the metal of
which it was composed. In those days Sult&n Ibr&him, enter*
taining suspicions against his old nobles, fettered and imprisoned
most of them, and transported others to various distant places.
Salim Shah, son of Slier Shah Sur.
[Text, vol. i. p. 384.] Salim Sh&h,* in the beginning of his
reign, issued orders that as the sardis of Sher Sh&h were two
miles distant from one another, one of similar form should be
built between tkem for the convenience of the public ; that a
mosque and a reservoir should be attached to them, and that
vessels of water and of victuals, cooked and uncooked, should he
always kept in readiness for the entertainment of Hindu, as well
as Muhammadan, travellers. In one of his orders he directed
that all the wadad-m'dsh and aima tenures in Hindust&n which
Sher Shdh had granted, and all the sardis which he had built and
1 [** The cloud cap't tower."] This was also the name of the old fort at Agra,
which was evidently within the area of the present one, because Jah&ngir, at the
opening of his memoirs, says, " My father demolUhed the old fort on the hanks of the
Jumna, and bnilt a new one.'* It must, however, have been pretty nearly destroyed
before Akbar's time, by the explosion mentioned infrd^ p. 491.
> The correct name is Isl&m Shiih, but some historians style him SalSm, and most
copies of the Tdrikh-i Baddiuil pervert it stiU more by giving the name aa lalim.
See suprd, Vol, IV. p. 478.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARrKH-I BADAUNr. 487
the gardens he had laid oat, should not be alienated, and that no
change should be made in their limits. He took away from the
nobles all the dancing girls maintained in their courts, according
to the common practice of India. He also took from them all
their elephants, and let none of them retain more than a sorry
female, adapted only for carrying baggage.
It was enacted that red tents should be in the exclusive use of
the sovereign. He resumed, and placed under the immediate
management of the State, the lands enjoyed by the troops, and
established pecuniary payments in lieu, according to the rates
fixed by Sher Sh&h. Circular orders were issued through the
proper channels to every district, touching on matters religious,
political and fiscal, in all their most minute bearings, and con-
taining rules and regulations, which concerned not only the
army, but cultivators, merchants, and persons of other pro-
fessions, and which were to serve as guides to the officials of the
State, whether thev were in accordance with the Muhammadan
law or not; — a measure which obviated the necessity of i^eferring
any of these matters to Kdzia or Muftis.
In order that these circular instructions might be fully compre-
hended, the nobles in command of five, ten or twenty thousand
horse, were ordered to assemble every Friday in a large tent, within
which was placed, on an elevated chair, a pair of Salim Shah's slip-
pers, and a quiver full of arrows. They then bowed down before
the chair, one by one, according to their respective ranks; first of
all the officer in command of the troops, and then the munsify or
amin^ and so on ; after which, with due respect and obeisance,
they took their respective seats, when a secretary coming forward
read to them the whole of the circular instructions above referred
to, which filled about eighty sheets of paper. Every difficult point
then at issue within the province was decided according to their
purport. If any of the nobles committed an act in contravention
of these orders, it was reported to the King, who forthwith passed
orders directing proper punishment to be inflicted on the offender,
as well as on his family. These rules were in force till the end
Digitized by VjOOQIC
488 'ABDU-L KXDIR BADAUNf.
of the reign of Sallm Sh&h, and the compiler of this history
witnessed the scene ahove described, when he was of tender age,
that is, in the year 955 a. h.^ when he accompanied his maternal
grandfather (may God extend his grace to him !) to the camp of
Farid T&ran, commander of 5000 horse, which was then pitched
in the district of Bajw&r&, a dependency of Bay&na.
In the year 954 or 955 a.u. (God knows which year is cor-
rect) Khw&ja Wais Sarw&nt, who was appointed to command the
expedition against 'Azam Hum&yun, fought with the Ni&zis on
the confines of Dhankot, and was defeated.^ 'Azam Ham&yun,
flashed with this success, pursued the Ehw&ja as far as Sirhind.
Salim Sh&h despatched a large force against the rebels, and a
battle ensued at the same place, in which the Ni&zis were de-
feated. Some of their women who were made captives were sent
prisoners to Gw&lior, and Salim Sh&h violated their chastity. He
distributed among the vagabonds of his camp the tents, stan-
dards, and other spoil of the Ni&zis which had fallen into his
bands, bestowing upon them the titles which were common among
the Nidzis ; such as Saiyid Kh&n, ^Azam Hum&yun, Sh&hb&z,
etc. He granted them kettle-drums, which were beaten at their
respective gates at the stated times. These low persons used to
beat their drums aloud, and claim the dignity of the dogs of the
celestial sphere. These people, in conformity with the practice of
making rounds, which is occasionally observed among the pro-
stitutes of India, went every Friday night to do homage to Salim
Shdh, instead of saying their prayers. On their arrival at the
palace, the heralds exclaimed, " Oh king, be gracious enough to
cast Your Majesty's eyes upon such and such Niazi Kh&ns, who
have come to offer up prayers for your health and welfare." This
proceeding exceedingly disgusted the Afgh&ns, who were of the
same tribe as the King. The Ni&zi titles, and the standards and
drums, which were granted to them by Salim Shah, are said by
some historians to have been bestowed on them after the first
battle. God knows whether this is correct or not. 'Azam
1 See suprd, Vol. IV. p. 493.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAETKH-I BADAUNr. 489
Ham&ydDy who was defeated in the last battle, was never able
again to take the field.
The ranks of the Ni&zfs began to be thinned day by day, and
they soon dispersed. In the first instance they took refuge with
the Ghakars, in tbe neighbourhood of Bioht&s, and then settled
themselyes in the hills in the vicinity of Kashmir. Salim Sh&h,
with the view of suppressing for the future the disturbances
excited by these insurgents, moved with an overwhelming force^
and took up a strong position in the hills to the north of the
Panjdb, where, for the purpose of establishing posts, he built five
fortresses, called M&nkot, Bashidkot, etc. As he had no friendly
disposition towards the Afghans, he forced them, for a period of
two years, to bring stones and lime for the building of those
fortresses, without paying them a single /t^/^, otjUal, Those
who were exempted from this labour were employed against the
Ghakars, who resisted strenuously, and with whom they had
skirmishes every day. At night the Qhakars prowled about like
thieves, and carried away whomsoever they could lay hands on,
without distinction of sex and rank, put them in the most rigo-
rous confinement, and then sold them into slavery.
These circumstances sorely afflicted the Afghans, who felt that
they were exposed to every kind of insult, but it was not in the
power of any individual to lay their grievances before Salim
Sh&h ; until one day, when Sh&h Muhammad Farmuli, a noble
noted for his hilarity and jocular speeches, who was a special
companion of the King, took heart and exclaimed, ^' O my liege I
two nights I dreamt that three bags descended from heaven ; one
containing ashes ; another, gold ; and the third, papers ; the ashes
fell upon the heads of the troops ; the gold upon the houses of
Hindus ; and the papers fell to the lot of the royal treasury."
Salim Sh&h did not take the allusion ill, and it had the effect of
inducing him to promise that he would, on his return to Gw&lior,
order his accountants to disburse two years' pay to the troops, but
his death, which occurred soon afterwards, prevented the fulfil-
ment of this promise.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
490 'ABBU-L KADIR BADAtTNT.
Sultan Muhammad 'A'dil, otherunae caUed 'Adali, son of
Nizdm Khan Sitr.^
[Text, vol. i. p. 413.] His real name was Mub&riz Kh&n ; bat
when he ascended the throne, with the accord of the ministers
and nobles, he assumed the title of Muhammad '^dil. The
people, however, used to call him ^Adali, and went so far as to
alter the letters of this name and convert it into Andhali, which
means ** blind."
Ibr&him Kh&n, after an unsuccessful action at Kh&nwa, fled to
Bayana, which is a strong fort in a commanding position. Himun
immediately invested it, and skirmishes were of daily occurrence
between the contending parties. The fort was well supplied with
guns and ammunition, and Gh&zl Kh&n, Ibr&him's &ther, who
was in Hindun, used to throw supplies into it by way of the hilla
to the west of Baj&na. Himun invested the fort for three
months, and devastated the whole of the country in the neigh*
bourhood, and my father's library in Bas&war was almost entirely
destroyed.
At this time a dreadful famine raged in the eastern provinces,
especially in Agra, Bay&na and Dehli, so that one air of the
grain called juwdri rose to two and a half tankas^ and even at
that price could not be obtained. Many of the faithful closed
their doors, and died by tens and twenties, and even in ^eater
numbers, and found neither cofSn nor grave. Hindus perished in
the same numbers. The common people fed upon the seeds of
the thorny acacia, upon dry herbage of the forest, and on the
hides of the cattle which the wealthy slaughtered and sold. After
a few days, swellings rose on their hands and feet, so that they
died, and the date is represented by the words khaahm-i izad^
" Wrath of God." The author with his own eyes witnessed the
fact that men ate their own kind, and the appearance of the
famished sufferers was so hideous that one could scarcely look
upon them. What with the scarcity of rain, the famine and the
desolation, and what with uninterrupted warfare for two years,
^ See suproj p. 43.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
MEfKH-I BADAUNr. 491
the whole country was a desert, and no husbandmen remained to
till the ground. Insurgents also plundered the cities of the
Musulm&ns.
Amongst the remarkable incidents of the year 962, during the
war between Sikandar and Ibr&him, was the explosion in the fort
of Agra, of which the following is a brief account. When the •
army of 'Adali Kh&n had left Agra, Ghazi Eh&n Sur sent his
own officers with a garrison to protect the property, to keep the
fort in a state of preparation, and to lay in provisions, for which
purpose they liad to examine the several storerooms and work-
shops. By chance, early one morning, as they were going their
rounds with a lamp, a spark fell into a room filled with gun-
powder. In the twinkling of an eye it ignited, and rising up to
heaven, the earth quaked, so that the inhabitants of the city
thought that the Day of Judgment had come, and prayed
devoutly when, they were roused thus suddenly from their slum-
bers. Planks, enormous stones and columns were sent flying
several kos to the other side of the Jumna, many people were
destroyed, and the limbs of men and of animals were blown away,
full ten or twelve miles. As the name of the citadel of Agra was
originally called Badalgarh, the date, 962, was found in the words
Mash'i Bddalgadh—'' The fire of B&dal."
While Himun was encamped before Bay&na, the people died
with the word *' bread '^ upon their lips, and while he valued the
lives of a hundred thousand men at no more than a barley-corn,
he fed his five hundred elephants upon rice, sugar, and butter.
The whole world was astounded and disgusted. Himun, once
every day, eat with his own followers in public, and calling the
Afghans to his own table, he would invite them to eat, telling
them to take up large handfuls, and he would shamefully abuse
any one whom he saw eating slowly, and say, **How can you with
such a slender appetite expect to fight with any rascally Mu-
ghal?" As the Afgh&ns had now nearly lost their power, they
could not muster spirit enough to reply to the unclean infidel ;
and laying aside the bluntness and hastiness for which they
Digitized by VjOOQIC
492 'ABDU-L KKDIU BADAUNF.
are so celebrated, they consented, whether from fear of con-
Beqaences or hope of reward, to swallow his foul language like so
many sweetmeats, adopting the following verses as their maxim:
*' Place not your hands submissively on my feet ;
Give me only bread, and lay your slipper on my head/'
Reign of Akbar.
Campaign of Khdn-zamdn.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 24. Year 964.] [Khan-zam£n in these few
years, with a small force, fought bravely against the numerous
forces of the Afgh4ns, and obtained the victory over them. The
history of his campaigns is a bright page in the annak of the
time. At the battle of Lucknow Hasan Kh&n Bachgoti came
up against him with 20,000 men, and Eh&u-zam&n had uot
altogether more than 3000 or 4000. When the enemy passed
the river Karwi and attacked Bah&dur Eh&n, he himself was
engaged taking a meal. When he was told that the enemy was
at hand, he called for the chess-board and played at his ease.
Afterwards being told that a foreign army was driving back his
forces, he called for his arms. His tents were being plundered,
and his whole army was in confusion. He ordered Baliadnr
Kh&n to retire ; then he, with a few men, beat his drums and
fell upon the enemy. He overpowered them, and drove them
for seven or eight ko8. Many of them were slain, and heaps
were formed of the corpses.
So also at Jaunpur he fought with the Gaurian who called
himself Sult&u Bah&dur, and had issued coin and caused the
khutba to be read in his name in Bengal. This man advanced
against Jaunpur with about 30,000 horse, and the men of Kh&n-
zam&n were completely routed. When Kh&n-zam4n arose from
his repast, he found the enemy engaged upon their meal or
occupied in plundering. The Kh&n fell upon them with a small
party of men, completely routed the Afgh&ns, killing many and
making many prisoners. He obtained such booty that his army
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARrKH-I BADAUNr. 493
wanted for nothing. The victories which he and his brother
achieved could have been accomplished bat by few. These two
brothers had many noble qualities; but the mark of rebellion
was upon them, so that in the end all their exploits came to
the dust.]
Owdlior and Bantambhor.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 31.i] [In the year 966 the fort of Gw&Hor was
taken. A slave of ^Adali's named Buhail Kh&n (Suhail), being
besieged in the fort, made terms and surrendered the keys. The
date was found in the words, Fath bob kil'ah OwdMr. In this
same year another slave of 'Adall's, named Sangr&m Kh&n, sold
the fort of Bantambhor into the hands of Surjan B&i H&dd. The
facts of the matter are, that shortly before this, when His Majesty
took up his abode at i)Cgra, he sent a party of amirs, such as
Hindu Beg Mughal, to reduce this fort. These amira drove
Sangr&m Eh&n before them, and ravaged the country round the
fortress ; but they were unable to accomplish their object.]
Affairs of the Author.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 32.] In a.h. 966, I left my home at Bas&war,
and went to Agra, for the purpose of completing my education.
I became acquainted with Mihr 'Ali Beg, and liv^ed in his house.
The Beg pressed most earnestly upon Shaikh Mubarak N&gori,
my tutor (the peace of God be upon him !), and Muluk Sh&h, my
father (God sanctify his tomb!), his desire that I should accom-
pany him on his projected expedition, and threatened that he
would not depart, unless this request was conceded. These two
dear guardians, moved by their friendly feelings, being persuaded
that it was to my advantage to go, consented to the arrangement,
and to please them, though an inexperienced traveller, and
though compelled for the time to relinquish my usual studies, I
started, in the height of the rains, on this perilous journey.
Passing through Kanauj, Lucknow, Jaunpdr, and Benares, and
1 See suprd, pp. 167, 175, 259, 260.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
494 'ABDU-L KXDIR BADAl/Nr.
seeing all that was to be seen, and holding interviews with several
holy and learned personages, I crossed the river Ganges, and
arrived at Ghan&r in the month of Zi-1 ka'da, a.h. 966.
Jam&l Khan sent some of his dependents to meet Mihr ^Ali
Beg, and they conducted him to Jamal Kh^n'^s house. The
palaces of Sher Shdh and Salim Sh&h, and all the ammanition
and resources of the fort were shown to him, and he was ap-
parently received with the utmost hospitality and kindness.
When the farmdn was read, which was intended to conciliate
Jam&l Kh&n, by conferring upon him five parganas of Jaunpur
in in'dm tenure, in lieu of the fort of Ghnn&r, Jam&l Kh&n
showed that he had further expectations, and placed the most
unheard-of difficulties in the way, seeking to delay Mihr 'A If
until an answer should be received to the representation which
he had made to Court. He insidiously -wrote also, at the same
time, communications both to Kh&n-zam&n and to Fath Kh&n
Afgh&n, who was in the fort of Boht&s with a considerable force,
holding out to them separately promises of the fort.
When Mihr 'Ali was aware of the perfidy practised by Jam&l
Kh&n, and being not without suspicions of the fidelity of Fath
Kh&n, he feared they would league together for his injury, and
so he left the fort under pretence of taking an airing, and cross-
ing the river in considerable alarm, proceeded direct to Agra,^
leaving me in the fort. As I thought it best to temporize with
Jam&l Kh&n by way of making my own escape, I proposed to
him that I should try and bring back Mihr 'AH, and effect a
reconciliation. To this he acceded, and in the evening I got
into a boat with the intention of crossing the river. It so
happened that the boat fell into a raging whirlpool under the
hill near the wall of the fort, and a fierce wind arose which
made the vessel shiver. If the mercy of God, the ruler of earth
and water, had not acted as my sail, the bark of my hope
would have been dashed to atoms by the whirlpool of calamity
against the hill of death.
^ This sentence is not in the printed text.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARfKH-I BADAUNr. 495
In the jungle which lies at the foot of the Ghun&r hills, Shaikh
Muhammad Ghaus, one of the greatest saints of India, had re-
sided for twelve years in the practice of asceticism, consuming
the leaves and fruits of the forest as his food; and so celebrated
was he for the fulfilment of his blessings, that even powerful
kings used to corae and visit him, and pay their respects. I fell
in with one of his dependents, and arrived at the hermitage. He
himself was not there, for in this very year he had proceeded
from Gujar&t to Agra, where he arrived in great pomp and
circumstance, accompanied by several disciples, and gave con-
siderable satisfaction to the f]mperor by the principles and faith
which he professed. ♦ *
Shaikh Gad&i, with that spirit of jealousy, spite, and malice
which is a peculiar failing of the saints of Hindust&n, was vexed
at this intrusion of a rival, and looked upon Shaikh Muhammad
Ghaus as one shopkeeper does on another, who commences the
same trade, in the storey directly over his head. Wise men know
well the truth of the adage, " Two of a trade never agree."
Kh&n-i kh&n&n, who was much attached to Shaikh Gad&i, did
not receive Shaikh Muhammad with that degree of respect and
favour which was his due. On the contrary, he assembled
divines and learned men, in order to ridicule the treatise of the
Shaikh, in which he had said that he had in his waking moments
had an interview and conversation with God, who assigned him a
superiority over the Prophet Muhammad. He had written other
nonsense equally pernicious and blasphemous. He sent also for
the Shaikh, and made him the butt of his contumely — so that
the Shaikh, much chagrined, retired to Gwdlior, where he en-
gaged himself in the pursuits of his holy calling, and contented
himself with the proceeds of a jagir, which yielded a kror (of
tankas).
[Text, vol. ii. p. 53.] [On 27th Rajab of this year (969 a.h.) my
father Muliik Sh&h (may God be merciful to him !) died in Agra
of dysentery. I carried his bier to Bas&war, and there buried,
him. I found the date of his death in the words Jahdn-fazl.']
Digitized by VjOOQIC
496 'ABDU-L EADIE BADAUNf.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 63.] At the time when the compiler of this
work resided at i(^ra, for the purpose of finishing his edacation.
Shaikh Muhammad Ghaus one day passed by in great state, and
accompanied by acclamations which rent the air. H^ was clothed
in the garb of £k fakir, I was at first anxious to pay my respects
to him; but when I learnt that he was in the habit of rising to
receive the salutations of Hindus, that desire vanished, and I was
deprived of the satisfiustion I had anticipated. Another day, I
saw him in the bdzdr at Agra, with multitudes of people throng-
ing before and behind him^ and he was so constantly occupied in
returning the salutations of the people on all sides of him, that
he could not sit up erect during the whole time of his airing.
Although he was eighty years old, his countenance was wonder-
fully fresh, and his whole appearance betokened anything but
old age and debility. The mercy of God be upon him ! ^
[Text, vol. ii. p. 64.] On the 20th of the blessed month Rama-
z&n of this year (970 a.h.) I heard at Sansaw&n, in Sambal, of
the death of my maternal grandiather in Bas&war. He had
taught me several sciences, and I was much attached to him.
He had many claims upon the respect of men of letters. The
date of his death is represented by the letters composing the
words, Fdzil'i Jahdn^ " The excellent of his time."
Hmain Khan Tukriya.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 125.] In a.h. 977 the pargana of Lucknow was
transferred from the possession of Husain Kb&n Kashmiri to
that of Mahdi K&sim Kh&n, who had just returned from Mecca,
and had paid his respects to the Emperor at Bantambhor.
Husain Ehan' was highly indignant at this, and exclaimed,
^ Among^ the biographies which are given at the close of the work, one is derated
to the Shaikh, in which the author says, that there was so Utile pride and self-
sufficiency in the Shaikh's composition, that he was never known to ntter the mono-
syllable man^ I. The instance he adduces to prove the assertion is, by the sttfdied
attempt to avoid the use of that word« more offensive than the most rampant egotism.
' This man, of whom some notice has already been taken in the Tabakdui AlAmri^
tuprd, p. 468, appears to have been an enthusiast, or a mad man, who could not get
over the persuasion that inexhaustible wealth was to be procured, from poasesaing
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARrKH-I BADAUNr. 497
"Our friendship is broken, we shall meet no more till the
day of judgment.'^ He then abandoned in disgust (his wife)
the daughter of Mahdi K&sim, notwithstanding he loved her,
and took the daughter of his uncle Ghazanfar Beg. After a
while, leaving his wife in distress, and the daughter of Mahdi
Kh&n with her brothers in Khair&bid, he set forth from Lucknow
with the design of breaking down the idols and of demolishing
the idol temples. For he had heard that their bricks were made
of gold and silver, and other false reports of their unbounded
treasures had come to his ears. He proceeded through Oudh,
towards the Siw&lik hills.^ The hill-men, as is their custom,
abandoned the lower hills after a slight resistance, and fled for
security to higher elevations, of which the ascent was very
dangerous. Husain Kh&n arrived at last at the place where
Sult&n Mahmud, nephew of Pir Muhammad Eh&n, was slain.
He read the fdtiha for the pure spirits of the martyrs who fell
there, and repaired their dilapidated tombs. He then ravaged
the whole country as far as the kaabah of Wajrdil, in the
country of B&j& Bankd, a powerful zaminddr^ and from that town
to Ajmir, which is his capital. In that place are to be found
mines of gold and silver, silks, musk, and all the productions of
Tibet, from which country he was only distant two days' journey;
— when, on a sudden, as has been frequently observed in those
mountains, the neighing of the horses, and the sound of the
himself of the mines in the hills. Five or six yean afterwards, he plundered the
Do&b, and then made an attack on Basantpdr in the hills, where there was a royal
garrison, and died from the effects of a gun-shot wound received there. 'Abdu-
E&dir, who declares himself a devoted friend and admirer of Husain Eh6n, says
that, though to all appearance he was a fool, he was in reality a very intelligent man.
See infrdj p. 603.
^ An impression of the great wealth of Kum&(in was generally prevalent about
• this time. Firishta at the conclusion of bis work, in speaking of the native R&j&s
of Hind(&Bt&n, says, **The R&j& of Eum&dn possesses extensive dominions. A con-
siderable quantity of gold is procured by washing, and copper mines are to be fnund
in the country. The treasures, too, are vast. It is a rule among the R&j&s not to
encroach upon the hoards of their ancestors ; for it is a saying among them, that
whoever applies his father's treasures to his own use, will become mean and beggarly
in spirit, so that, at the present day, fifty-six distinct treasures exist, which have been
left by the R&j&s of Kum&Cin, each with the owner's seal upon it"
TOL. y. 32
Digitized by VjOOQIC
498 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAUNF.
kettle-drums, as well as the voices of his followers, caused the
clouds to collect, and so much rain fell, that neither com nor
grass was to be procured.^ Famine stared the array in the fiwe,
and although Hnsain Eh&n, with the most undaunted intrepidity
encouraged his men, and excited their cupidity by representing
the wealth of the city and the country, in gold, jewels and
treasure, they were too much disheartened to second his resolu-
tion, and he was compelled to retreat.
On their retreat the E&firs, who were in possession of the
passes, showered down stones and arrows tipped with poisoned
bones upon them. They also blocked up the way, and most of
the bravest of his warriors drank the cup of martyrdom. Many
of the wounded, who escaped at the time, died five or six
months afterwards from the effects of the poison.
Husain Kh&n returned to Court, and requested that K&nt and
GTola* might be conferred upon him in jdglr^ in lieu of tlie one he
held before. This was graciously acceded to. Several times he
made incursions to the foot of the hills with various success, but
he was never able to penetrate into the interior. Many fine
fellows, who had escaped half-dead from his first expedition, now
felt the malarious influence of the climate, and died off, but not in
battle. After some years Husain Ehan, contrary to the advice
and remonstrances of his friends, mustered his forces for a final
1 This story reminds us of the succour which was so opportunely offered to the
army of Marcus Aurelius, when it was engaged in a hopeless conflict with the Marco-
manni, in the barren mountains beyond the Danube.
Oh niminm dllecte Deo ! cul fandit ab antris
JSolus armatas hiemea ; cai militat ntber,
£t oonjurati Teniunt ad olaasioa venti.
Claudian, De tert. Cbns. Honor, t. 98.
Tertullian, Eusebius, Jerome, and other Ghrisidan authors ascribe the miracolous
shower to the prayers of the Christian soldiers in the army. Suidas and Dio CaGsiiu
to a magician. The fact is indisputable ; the cause is more probably explained by
our Oriental writer. In modern days, it has frequently been obserred that severe
actions haye been followed by rain, and philosophical reasons have been assigned for
this curious effect.
* This district, which pretty nearly corresponds with Sh&hjah&npdr, in Rohilkhand,
is sometimes styled K&nt Gola. For the position and varying extent of this tract,
see SuppUtnental Glouaryy Art Gola.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAEfKH-I BADAirNF. 499
straggle to get possession of the hills^ and perished in the
attempt, as, please God, will be mentioned in its proper place.
About this time I went, after taking leave of Husain Eh&n^
from Lucknow to Bad&un, where I formed a suitable nuptial
alliance for my brother. Shaikh Muhammad, whom I loved from
my very soul, nay, better than my own soul, for he was endowed
with every excellent and angelic quality. Three months did not
elapse before he died, he, as well as 'Abdu-1 Latif, the light of my
eyes, the earliest fruits of the garden of my life (my first-bom),
who, when time cast an evil eye upon him, was carried off, in the
twinkling of an eye,^ from the cradle to the tomb, and I was
suddenly reduced from the happiest to the saddest of men. God
created me, and to God shall I return !
Death of Shaikh Salim Chishti. — The Author wounded, —
Conflagration at Baddun. ' ^ /
[Text, vol. ii. p. 136.] In the year 979 a.h. the palace at Agra
and the palace at the new town of Fathpur were completed. * * *
At the close of the month of Bamaz&n of this year. Shaikh Salim
Chishti, of Fathpur, died. He was one of the chief saints of
Hindust&n, and his sayings are worthy of commemoration. I
will hereafter give a notice of him, please God, in the supplement
to this history.
During this year an unfortunate accident befell the author, of
which the following are the particulars. At the period when
Kant and Gola was held in j'dgir by Muhammad Husain Kh&n,
and when it pleased fate to associate me with him for some time,
as I was appointed Judge of that district,^ I went on a pilgrimage
to Makanpur, a dependency of Kanauj, where is the tomb of the
holy Shaikh, Badi'u-1 Hakk wau-d din Shdh Maddr (may God
sanctify his tomb!). Tiiis son of man, through the disposition
which he inherited from his sinful and ignorant nature (which
1 This triple repetition of the word ei/e ia intended for a witticism— frigid enough,
and in a most inappropriate place.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
500 'ABDIT-L KADIR BADAlTNr.
he imbibed with his mother's crude milk, and which is the
cause of shame and reproach), and through innate darkness
and ignorance (which are the source of presumption and baseness,
and which came down to him by inheritance from &ther Adam),
the eyes of his wisdom were covered with a film of lust, and he
was inclosed in the net of lasciviousness, so that he committed
all of a sudden, as was of old forewilled by Providence, a gross
impropriety within that shrine. Since the chastisement as well
as the mercy of God was upon me, I received upon earth the
punishment of my sin, by his ordaining that several connexions
of the girl whom I fell in love with should inflict nine sword
wounds upon my head, hands, and shoulders. They were all
slight, but one penetrated the bone of my skull, and reached to
the brain, exposing me as a brainless fellow, and another partially
severed the veins of the little finger of my left hand. I fisunted
away, and appeared to be travelling to another world. May Gt>d
bless my resurrection !
I met with an excellent surgeon in B&ngarmau, who closed my
wounds within a week, and in the midst of my pain and illness,
I made a vow, that if I recovered I would go to Mecca — a vow
which I have not yet been able to perform, but which I hope,
God willing, to do before I die, and before any obstacle intervenes
to prevent the execution of that excellent resolve. The rest is
with God!
Afterwards, I arrived at K&nt and Gola, and had no sooner
bathed after my recovery, than I was again laid on my bed by
sickness, the wound having become ulcerous from the effect of
excessive cold. Husain Khan (may God bless him with eternal
Paradise! for he showed himself more than a father or a brother
to me) administered some medicine, in the shape of a plaster and
electuary, both made from the wood of the tamarisk, and enabled
me to proceed on my journey to Bad&un. There another surgeon
took off the dressings, and re-opened the wound on my head. I
was nearly expiring from the intensity of the pjun. * • *
During this year a dreadful fire broke out at Badaun, and an
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARFKH-I BADAITNT. 501
immense number of Miisulmdns and Hindus perished in the
flames. Carts full of the remains of those who were burnt were
driven down to the river, and no one could tell who was a
believer, and who an infidel. Many who escaped being burnt
rushed to the ramparts, and were so scorched by the flames, that
men and women precipitated themselves from the wall in despair.
Some had their skins burnt and disfigured. Water seemed only
to add fuel to the flames. All this I witnessed with my own
eyes, and heard the noise of the flames with my own ears. Some
it warned, others it destroyed. A short time before this, a half-
witted fellow came from the Do&b, whom I took into my own
house and society. He said to me one day in private, that I
ought to flee out of that city, as some infliction of Providence
was about to befall it. But I paid no attention to him, as he was
a frequenter of taverns.
Erection of the fort of Surat, in defiance of the Portuguese
infidels}
[Text, vol. ii. p. 145.] One day in the year 980, the King went
to look at the fort of Surat, and gave orders to repair the portions
that had been battered and destroyed. During his inspection
he saw the large mortars, which had been despatched with a
powerful fleet and army by Sulaim&n Sult&n, the Turkish Em-
peror, to assist in capturing the harbours of Gujar&t, and had been
left on the sea-shore, covered with rust, because Sulaim&n A'ga,
the admiral, had abandoned the enterprise through meeting with
some obstacle.' There they remained, until Khud&wand Kh&n
1 [See «{iprd, p. 350.]
' Mubammadan authoiB slorover the precipitate retreat, but Shaikh Zainu-d din
confesses to a panic. — See Rowlandson, Tohfut-ul'mujahideen, p. 143. Maffei — who
styles the admiral Sulaim&n^ '* Solimanns Peloponnesius, yir enormi non minus adipe,
qnam avaritia et crudelitate notissimus/' — tells us, that the Turks were so terrified by
the four lanterns, which the Portuguese hung out from some of the ships of the 6oa
fleet, that they set sail for Arabia in the utmost alarm, leaTing behind them five
hundred wounded and a great portion of their ordnance.
Nonnius, (Nuno de Cunha) dum ab subsidium inolusis ferendum reliquam omat
dassem, celeriter prsemisse libumicsB sexdedm ad Madrafabam aceesserant noctu,
quatemis in singulas pnppes luminibus ad speciem angendam baud frnstra sublatis :
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602 'ABDU-L KADIB BADAUNI.
wazir had them carried into the fort of Surat, at the time it was
building. The few which remained had been taken to Junagarh ^
by the Governor. The King inspected them, and gave orders that
some of them, which were not wanted there, should be sent to
Agra.«
The reason assigned for Ehud&wand Khin's' building the fort
of Surat is, that the Firingfs used to oppress the Mnsulm&ns in
every kind of manner, devastating the country, and tormenting
God's servants. At the time of laying the foundations of the
fort, they tried to throw every obstacle in the way, by firing
cannon from their ships,^ but all without effect.
That expert engineer laid the foundations of one side within
the sea, dug a deep ditch round the two sides which fsyoed the
land, and built the walls with stones and burnt bricks. The wall
was thirty-five yards long.^ The breadth of the four walls was
fifteen yards, and their height twenty yards, and the breadth of
60 qaippe terrore Tnrcea peroolsi, tribna jam millibiis snanun amiasis, • • • noctiB
intempestsB silentio conscendunt naree, dnobm drciter mensibufl in obsidione oonramp-
tis ; ac Tela dant in Arabiam tanUt cum irepidatione, at saneioB qningentos et mag^nam
iormentornm partem fedd reliqnerint. — (Maffei, Hist, Indie, Lib. xi. toI. ii. p. 60S.)
Diego de Conto says tbat the stratagem was rendered more effectual by the cotnci-
dence of an eclipse of the moon. — (Asia, Dec t. lib. t. cap. 4. See also Faria-e-
Bonza, torn. i. part iy. cap. 9.)
** Solyman, the Bassa," says Knolles, ^' a moat femons Pyrat, assaulted (In Sq[>tem'
ber, 1538) Dium, a castle of the Portngals, situate upon the month of that great rirer
(Indus), but, in conclusion, after he had many days besieged the caatle, both by sea and
land, and tried the uttermost of his strength, he was so repulsed by the Portngala, that
he was glad to forsake the siege, and leaving his great ordnance behind him for haste,
returned back again to Aden, a city of great trade in Arabia Felix " — lUrkish JETm-
iory, vol. i. p. 461.
^ Firishta, in his reign of Mahmlld Sh&h III. of Gujar&t, saya that they were
brought /roffi Junagarh for the defence of Surat ; and this is the most probable, as the
ordnance was abandoned at Did.
* The Mir^i-i Ahmadi says there was only one Sulaim&nl gun which the King
wished to transfer to Agra, but could not find the means of transport for so heaxy a
piece.— See Bird, History of Ch^ardty p. 322.
' This is the same chief that we read of in Sidi 'AlTs journal. — See Diei, Detdt-
wurdigkeiten von Asien^ toL ii. p. 180.
B [This sentence was not given in the original translation, bat a note in the
printed text says that it is found in aU the three copies oonsulted. There must be
some omission or error, or the fort must have been a rery small affair.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAEfKH-I BADAimr. 603
the ditch waa twenty yards. All the stones, the joints and
interstices were fastened together with iron clamps, and made
firm with molten lead. The battlements and embrasures are lofty,
and so beautifiil that every one was astonished at beholding them.
On the bastions, which projected into the sea, was erected a gallery
(ghur/a)y which the Firingis, especially the Portuguese, profess to
say is an inrention of their own. When the Musulm&ns began
to erect this ehaukandij^ the Firingis exerted every kind of op-
position to obstruct it; and when they found they could not
prevail by force, they offered large sums of money to prevent its
being built: but Khnd&wand Kh&n, through the regard which he
bore to his own religion, sternly refused, and plied the work till
it was finished, in contemptuous defiance of the Christians.
Husain Khdn Tukriya.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 16 1.] In 980 a.h. Husain Eh&n Mahdi K&sim
Eh&ni, jdgirddr of E&nt and Grola, had gone off to quell the insur-
gents of Bad&dn and Patti&Ii, before he heard of Ibr&him Husain
Mirz&'s arrival in the neighbourhood of Dehli.* In the mean
^ It is quite inoomprelieiisible why this building, whatever it was, Bhoald liaye ex-
cited 80 much rancour on both rides. One might suppose it was rather a battery,
than a small palace. Literally, it may be said to mean '* a four-cornered room."
Briggs calls it a four-storied palace. He translates the passage thus : —
** Within the town is a beautiful building, four stories high, which the Hindus call
Chowkunda, and the Europeans compare it to a Portuguese palace. Finding they could
not prevent by force the construction of the fort, the Portuguese offered large sums
of money to induce Khoodabunda Khan not to fortify Burat, but their gold was
rejected." — (Briggs, yoL ii., Firishta, vol. iv. p. 147.)
This differs much from the original, which runs thus : —
« The Firingis said, * If you will not abstain from building the fort, do not, at
any rate, build the ehaukandi after the model of Portugal ; and to secure that, we
will pay as much money as we offered to prevent your building the fort.' Ohazanfar
Ak&i Turk, sumamed Khud&wand Kh&n, replied, * Through the liberality of the
Sult&n I am in need of nothing; and to show my detestation of you, I shall build this
kind of ehaukandi, and secure for myself the peculiar blessings which attend good
works.' He then sent for the ordnance and other stores, which were called Suiaimdnl
on account of the Turks having abandoned them, and which were then in J&nagarh,
and placed them in different parts of the fort of Surat, and strengthened it"—
(History of Onfardt, Mahm(id Sh&h III.)
I cannot find mention of the transaction in any European author.
> [See auprd, p. 356.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
504 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAUNf.
time, Makhddmu-l Mulk Mau1£n& 'Abda-lla Solt&npuri and
B&J& Bih&r Mai, who were entrusted with the chief direction of
afiairs during the King's absence in Gujar&t, wrote to Husain
Kh&n from Fathpur, to inform him that Ibr&him Husain Mirz&
had experienced two defeats, and was then in the vicinitj of
Dehli, and that as no person of importance was now present to
defend the capital, he ought to hasten to Fathpur without delay.
He accordingly prepared to obey their summons, and was well
on his road, having arrived at the Tillage of Oudh, in Jalesar,
when he learnt that the R&j& of Awesar still continued the de-
predations which he had practised since the accession of the King^
in the neighbourhood of -^gra, and had become a predatory
robber (kazzdk). He had been engaged in several hard conflicts
with some loyal nobles, and had slain many excellent men, and
at that time he was concealed in the jungle of the village of
Naur£hi, in the pargana of Jalesar.
We had scarcely time to ponder on this intelligence, when all
of a sudden, while we were marching at mid-day on the 15th
of Bamaz&n, the men being off their guard, and going on in
separate parties, most of them, also, being exhausted with the
fast, an attack was made upon us, with matchlocks and arrows.
The R&jd of Awesar had formed stages of wicker-work on the
tops of the trees, and from this secure position several of oar
men were killed and wounded. At the very commencement of
the attack, a ball struck Husain Kh&n below the knee, grazed his
thigh, and, passing through the saddle, was spent upon the head
of his horse. He was very nearly fainting and falling from his
saddle, but his self-possession enabled him to keep his seat by
clinging to the pommel. I threw water on his face, and his im-
mediate attendants, not aware of the accident, at first thought
that his &sting had worn him out. I then seized hold of his
bridle, for the purpose of carrying him for safety beliind a tree
out of the storm of arrows, when he opened his eyes, and, con-
trary to his usual habit, looked sternly at me, and made signs
that there was no need to hold his reins, but that we should dis-
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TARTKH-I BADAUNr. ' 506
mount and join in the fray. We accordingly alighted, leaving
him there to take care of himself.
The contest then raged with ftiry, and many were killed on
hoth sides. At last, towards evening, victory inclined to our
party, which was the smallest, and the infidels were put to flight
like so many eheep, but not before our sipdhis were so tired, that
they could scarcely wield a sword or shoot an arrow. We had
all been so jammed together in the forest, that we could with
difficulty tell friend from foe. Some of our men had strength of
mind and body enough, to deserve the reward, both of engaging
in holy war, and of maintaining a strict fast. I, on the contrary,
in my weakness, at last took a cup of water to moisten my
throat, for the want of which some poor fellows died. Several
excellent friends of mine attained martyrdom in repelling this
attack.
After this victory, Husaiu Kh&n returned by rapid marches to
K&nt and Gola, and strengthened those places. Shortly after,
Ibr&him arrived in the pargana of Lakhnor, fifteen kos from
Sambal.^ As Husain Khan was still suffering from tlie effects of
his wound, he was obliged to be carried on a litter, but never-
theless he advanced to B&ns Bareilli, in order to force Ibr&him
to action, and from Bareilli he made Sambal in one day by a
forced march. Ibraliim, alarmed at this exhibition of confidence
and courage, thought it better to decline an action, and retreated
by way of Amroha, in the environs of Lakhnor, leaving a dis-
tance of seven kos between him and his opponent. Had Husain
Kh&n been compelled to fight in his then wounded state, God
knows what would have happened! It was one of the Mirz&'s
mistakes that he did not attack Husain Kh&n while he was in
this weak state.
[Mu'inu-d din Kh&n Farankhudi, governor of Sambal, with
a large party, and several other amirs a,nd jagirddrs of the neigh-
bourhood, who had taken refiige in the fort, when they heard at
1 Sambal was tbe paternal estate of rbr&bim HuBain Wink. Gulrakh Begam,
his wife, was a daughter of K&mr&n Mirz&, and, consequently, Akbar's first cousin.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
506 'ABDU-L EADia BADAlTNr.
midnight the roll of the drums of Husun Eh&n^ they thought
the Mirz& was upon them, and were quite overpowered by fear.
But when the cry arose that Husain Eh&n had come to their
assistanoe, they came out joyfully to meet him. Next day we
went to the abode of Shaikh Fathu-lla Tarbati, one of the yicara
of Shaikhu-1 Isl&m Fathptiri, and there held a council. It was
then considered advisable that all the amirs of the neighbourhood
of Dehli who had turned out against the Mirzd should go with
Tolak Eh&n Eorchi and * * to the pargana of Ab&r on the
Ganges, and there wait for us ; then, after the junction of the
forces, further operations might be decided on.
Husain Eh&n exclaimed, " Good God! The Mirz& came here
with a small party of horse, and although your numbers more than
doubled his, you took refuge in the fort of Sambal; and now
twenty or thirty amirs and old soldiers with a large force are 80
dismayed that you want to shelter yourselves in the fort of ^&r,
which is a mere rat's hole. This will encourage the Mirz& to
make further attacks upon the Imperial territories. Now there
are two courses open, one of which we must follow. Yoa must
cross the Ganges, and, under the cover of that old fort, must
intercept the Mirzd, and prevent his getting over the G^ange8.
I will follow up in his rear, and we shall see what will happen.
Or I will hasten over the Ganges, and head the Mirzd, while you
pursue him. This seems to be our duty." But they could not
agree upon any course until Husain Eh&n, driven by necessity,
went off in haste with the horsemen he had to the amirs at Khkv^
and inveighed loudly against their going into the fort. He
brought them out, and again held a council with them. ^^The
enemy ,'*" he said, '48 in the heart of the country, and is like a hare
in the midst of a camp. If we follow him up sharply, we may settle
his business, and take him alive. The glory of this victory will
be yours." The soldiers said, '' Under the orders of Makhddmu-1
Mulk and R&j& Bih&r Mai, we have driven the Mirzi out of the
Delhi territory, and have come into Sambal. MuMnu-d din Ahmad
Kh&n is the master aiud jdgirddr of this province, and he is now
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TAEfKH-I BADAUNr. 607
responsible. Our orders were to protect Dehli, not to make war
upon the Mirzd, for there are risks in such a course."
Intelligence now arrived that the Mirzd had attacked Amroha,
and having crossed the Ganges at the ford of Ghaub&la, was
marching rapidly towards Lahore. Husain Kh&n, convinced of
the apathy of the amira^ separated himself firom them immediately,
and made a forced march to Garh-muktesar, in order to arrest the
Mirzd. Of the royal amira^ Turk Subh&n Kuli and Farrukh
Diw&na were the only ones that accompanied him. A letter
now reached him from the amirs of Ah&r, urging him to come
speedily and join them. The Mirz4, like the rook on a cleared
chess-board, now came into the heart of the country, plundering
and ravaging the towns in his way. When he was at F&yal, his
men committed such atrocities upon Musnlni&n people as cannot
well be described. In that town twelve virgins were ravished
with such violence that several of them died. Other places &red
in the same way. Husain Ehan followed the steps of the Mirzd,
and the amirs came after him, until they reached Sirhind. Here
they became refractory, and would go no further. £ut Husain
Kli&n was not Content to remain. With the small force under
his command, not exceeding 200 men in all, and with the two
persons (above named), he marched rapidly from Sirhind to
Ludiy&na. There he learnt that on the Mirz&'s approaching
Lahore, the garrison had closed the gates against him. Upon
this the Mirzd went to Sher-garh and Jahni.
Husain £uli Eh&n, who was besieging I^agarkot and the fort
of E&ngra, heard of these movements of the Mirz&'s ; so he
patched up a treaty with the Hindis. He received five mans of
gold as tribute from the people of Nagarkot, and had the khutba
read in His Majesty's name. He then marched away along with
Mirz& Ytisuf Kh&n, Masnad-i 'Ali, Fattu (Eatlu) the slave of
^Adali, Ism'ail Kh&n, R&j& Birbal and other amirs^ and proceeded
in pursuit to Sankra. When Husain Eh&n heard of this move-
ment, in that madness which a thousand times had got the better
of his judgment, he swore an oath that he would not eat food
Digitized by VjOOQIC
508 'ABDTJ.L KKDIU BADAlTNr.
until Husain Knli joined him. Grossing the Biy&h at the ford of
Talwandf, he made a forced march to Sher-garh, one of the de-
pendencies of Jahni. There he paid a visit to Shaikh D&ud
K&diri Jahni-w&l. When food was serred, he excused himself
from eating on accoant of his oath. The Shaikh observed that it
was easy to atone for an oath, but silly to distress one's fiiends.
The Kh&n instantly called for a slave, and having set him free,
thus atoned for his oath. Then he partook of the fi)od, and
benefited by the gracious words which he heard. He remained
there that night. The monastery of the Shaikh provided enter-
tainment for all the party, and his fields furnished grass and com
for the horses.
Three days afterwards I came from Lahore to Sher-garh, and
stayed there four days, seeing and hearing things which had
never entered into my imagination. I was anxious to withdraw
from the world, and to devote myself to the sweeping of the
monastery. But the Shaikh would not allow me, and told me I
must go to Hinduatdn. So I took my leave in a very forlorn
and distressed state. ♦ ♦ ♦
One stage from Talwandi, Husain Kh&n addressed a letter to
Husain Kuli Kh&n, saying that he had come four hundred kos
by forced marches, and begging for one day's delay, so that he
might join him, and share in the victory to be won. Husain
Kuli Kh&n said, *' Very well," and sent the messenger back. On the
same day he hastened on to the town of Tulamba, four kas from
Mult&n, and attacked the Mirz&, who was out hunting, and quite
unaware of his approach. Some of the Mirz&'^s men were pre-
paring to march, and others had dispersed, and were not in con-
dition to fight. Mas'ud Husain Mirzd, younger brother of Mirz4
Ibr&him Husain, took the initiative, and attacked the forces of
Husain Kuli Kh&n; but his horse stumbled and fell upon the
broken ground, and he was taken prisoner. When Mirad Ibr&hinn
Husain returned from hunting, all chance was gone; and although
he fought well, and made several charges, he was unable to g^un
any success ; so he turned his reins and fled.
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TAETKH-I BADAUNr. 509
The day after the victory Husain Kh£n arrived at Tulamba,
with eighty or ninety men, and drums beating. Husain Kuli
Eh&n showed him the battle-field, and told him of each man^s
exploits. Husain Kh^n then said, ^' As the enemy has escaped
alive, you must pursue him and take him prisoner, for the
business is not yet completed." Husain Euli Eh&n replied that
he had come from Nagarkot by forced marches, that his forces
had suffered many hardships in that mountainous country, and
were not in condition. A complete victory had been secured,
and now there was an opportunity for other friends.
Husain £h&n now hoped that his turn was come, and that the
hardships and the forced march of five hundred kos had opened a
way for him, so he took his leave, and pressed forward. Some
men, who were worn out with fatigue, he sent to Lahore with the
elephants and drums. With a small party of men he took up
the pursuit of the Mirz£. There was but a short distance be-
tween him and the unfortunate Mirz&, when one night the M irz&
and about four hundred horsemen halted on the banks of the
Biy&h and Sutlej, where the rivers unite. The yAf&, who are a
low class of MuU&n peasants, having collected together, made a
night attack upon him, and assailed him with arrows. The Mirz&,
with a party of men, some wounded and some disabled, did what
they could to beat off their assailants; but ih^jhih came on suc-
cessfully. At length an arrow, guided by fate, struck the Mirzd
at the back of his head, and came out through his throat. Unable
otherwise to help himself, he changed his clothes, and his men left
him. They fled, sorely distressed, in every direction. But wher-
ever they went^ they were marks for the arrows of death, and met
their fate. One or two old slaves of Mirzd Ibr&him, having
dressed him in the garments of a kalandar^ were desirous of
getting him out of the way of danger. His helplessness was so
great that they took him for refuge to the dwelling of a darwesh
named Shaikh Zakariya. Outwardly the Shaikh applied oint-
ment to his wounds, but privately he sent information to Sa'id
£h&n at Mult&n. The Kh&n sent a slave named Daulat Kh&n
Digitized by VjOOQIC
510 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAlTNr.
to bring in the Mirz& a prisoner. Sa'id Kh&n wrote a despatch,
and sent it to the Emperor as he was coming to Ajmir on his
return from Gujar&t.
Husain Kh&n, when he heard of the capture of the Mirz&,
hastened to Mult&n, and saw Said Kh&n. He made a difficulty
about seeing the Mirz&, and said: '' If when I see him, I salute him,
it will be inconsistent with my duty to the Emperor, and if I do
not salute him, it will be uncourteous, and the Mirz& will say to
himself — ' See this uncircuracised fellow, who, when he received
quarter at the siege of Satwas, made obeisances without end, and
now that evil days are fallen upon me treats me cavalierly/ '' The
Mirzd heard these ceremonious words of his, and said ^^ Gome and
see me, and without obeisance, for I waive it/' Notwithstanding
he made his bow, and saw him. The Mirza, with an anxious
look, said, '*I had no intention of rebellion and disturbance.
When the matter took a serious turn, I took my own course, and
threw myself into a foreign country. But they would not allow
me to stay there. If it was my fate that this defeat should fall
upon me, would to God that I had received it at your hands, that
it might have been the cause of the advancement of you, who are
my co-religionist, and not from Husain Kuli Kh&n, who is alien
in religion and sect!" Husain Kh&n then returned to K&nt and
Gola, and soon afterwards he heard that the Mirz& had died ia
prison.
Husain Kh&n proceeded from K&nt and Gola to Court. Husain
Kuli Kh&n also came to Fathpur from the Panj&b, bringing
Mas'ud Husain Mirz&, with his ejes fastened up, and a number
of the Mirz&'s men as prisoners. They were nearly three
hundred persons, and they were brought before the Emperor,
with skins of asses, hogs, and dogs cast over them, some to
be put to death with divers tortures, and some to be set at
liberty. ♦ * Sa'id Kh&n also sent the head of Mirzd Ibrahim
Husain from Mult&n, having had it cut oflf for the purpose
afler his death.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARIKH-I BADAlTNr. 511
Sulaimdfi Kirdni,^
[Texk, vol. li. p. 163.] [In this year (980) died Sulaim&n
Kir&ni, ruler of Bengal, who had assumed the title of HazraUi
*ala. He had conquered that mine of infidelity, the city of
Katak and Ban&ras,' and had made Jagann&th a home of Isl&m.
His authority extended from K&mrii (K&mrup) to Orissa. His
son B&yazid succeeded himj but in the course of five or six
months, the Afgh&ns put him to death, and his brother D&ud bin
Sulaim&n attained the sovereignty.]
Ahu'l Fazl
[Text, vol. li. p. 173.] About this time (Z(-l hijja, 981 a.h.).
Shaikh Abu-l Fazl, son of Shaikh Mubarak Ndgori, the star of
whose knowledge and wisdom was brilliant, came to Court, and
received many marks of distinction.
Building of Palaces.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 173.] In 981 fine spacious palaces were
built on the road to Ajmir. His Majesty's devotion induced
him every year to go on a pilgrimage to that city. So directions
were given for building a palace at every stage between i^gra and
Ajmir, and for erecting a pillar and sinking a well at every koa.
Some hundreds of thousands of stags' horns, which had been
killed in the course of His Majesty's life, were placed upon the
pillars as a memorial for the world. ^ Would that, instead of
these, gardens or sardis had been formed !
Lodi Afghani
[Text, vol. ii. p. 174.] [Ddud was now at H&jipur, and at
the instance of Katlu Kh&n, governor of Jagann&th, he threw
1 [See auprd, p. 872.]
> [Katak was called '< Katak Ban&ras/' See auprd, p. 386.]
' The pillar, which is in the beat state of preserration, is to be seen at Fathptir
Sfkrl, where the garrulous cicerone gives a yery different account of its origin. It is
called " hiran mindr^** or " pillar of the antelope."
« [See tuprd, p. 872.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
512 'ABDTJ-L KADIB BADAUNr.
into prison his amiru-l umard Lodi, who had been ruler of Orissa,
but who had since taken a hostile course, and had set himself
up in opposition in the fort of Boht&s. He got Lodi into his
power by holding out the bribe of an elephant. They tell the
story that one day D&ud went out hunting with a small escort,
and that Lodi, with ten thousand horsemen of Sulaim&nX formed
the design of putting down D&ud. But D&iid went back to the
city, assembled his forces, and scattered Lodi's followers. By his
crafty management, he got Lodi into his power, and appropriated
all that he possessed. Lodi, knowing his death to be certain, did
not withhold his advice from D&ud. He said, ^'Although I
know that you will be very sorry after my death, and that you
will derive no benefit from it, still I will give you one counsel,
which if you act upon you will prove victorious. My advice is,
that you place no reliance upon that peace which I effected not
long ago by means of two lacs of rupees. The Mughals will
never let you alone for this trifling sum. Be beforehand with
them, and make war with them immediately, for there is nothing
like the first blow." D&ud thought he had an evil design in
what he said, and, proud of the hollow peace which he had made
with Kh&n-kh&n&n, but which was no better than a shadow, he
put the devoted Lodi to death. Thus he struck his own foot
with the axe, and at the same time uprooted the plant of his
prosperity with the spade of calamity.]
Building of the fort of Paydg,
[Text, vol. ii. p. 176.] On Safar 23rd, a.h. 982, His Majesty
arrived at Paydg (Pray&ga), which is commonly called Ill&h&b&s,
where the waters of the Ganges and Jumna unite. The infidels
consider this a holy place, and with the object of obtaining the
rewards which are promised in their creed, of which transmigra-
tion is one of the most prominent features, they submit them-
selves to all kinds of tortures. Some place their brainless heads
under saws, others split their deceitful tongues in two, others
enter hell by casting themselves down into the deep river fix>m
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TARIKH-I BADAUNf. 613
the top of a high tree.^ Here His Majesty laid the foundations
of an Imperial city, which he called lU&h&bas.
Translation of the Singhdsan Battisi.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 183.] [In Jum&da-l dkhir, while the Court
was at Sher-garh, otherwise called Kanauj, a book called Singh-
dsan Battkij which is a series of thirty-two tales about B&jd
Bikram&jit, King of M&lwa, and resembles the Tuti-ndma, was
placed in my hands; and I received His Majesty's instructions to
make a translation in prose and verse. I was to begin the work
at once, and present a sheet of my work on that very day.
A learned brahman was appointed to interpret the book for me.
On the first day I completed a sheet, containing the beginning
of the first story, and when I presented it, His Majesty ex-
pressed his approbation. When the translation was finished, I
called it Khirad-a/zd^ a name which contains the date of its
composition. It was graciously accepted, and placed in the
Library.]
Revenue Arrangements}
[Text, vol. ii. p. 189.] [In this year (982) an order was
promulgated for improving the cultivation of the country, and
for bettering the condition of the raiyats. AH the parganas
of the country, whether dry or irrigated, whether in towns
or hills, in deserts and jungles, by rivers, reservoirs, or wells,
were all to be measured, and every such piece of land as,
upon cultivation, would produce one kror of tankas^ was to be
divided off, and placed under the charge of an officer to be
called kroriy who was to be selected for his trustworthiness, and
whether known or unknown to the revenue clerks and treasurers.
So that in the course of three years all the uncultivated land
might be brought into cultivation, and the public treasury might
^ [See Vol. I. p. 35.] Here is stiU further testimonj to this tree being ia the open
air, at the point of the confluence, to a very late period. It is the celebrated AkhaU
hoTy or immortal fig-tree. See Wilson's Hindu Theatre^ toL i. p. 302.
3 [See suprdf p. 383.]
VOL. Y. 33
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614 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAUNT.
be replenished. Secnrity was taken from each one of these
officers. The meagarement was begun in the Tidnity of Fath-
pur. One kror was named ifdampdr, another Shethpur, another
Ajubpur, and so on, according to the names of the yarious prophets
(and patriarchs). Begubtions were drcnlated, but eventnally
these regulations were not obseryed as they ought to haye been.
A great portion of the oonntry was laid waste through the rapacity
of the krariSf the wiyes and children of the raiyaU were sold and
scattered abroad, and eyerything was thrown into confusion. But
the kroris were brought to account by B&ja Todar Mai, and many
good men died from the seyere beatings which were administered,
and from the tortures of the rack and pincers. So many died
from protracted confinement in the prisons of the reyenue autho-
rities, that there was no need of the executioner or swordsman, and
no one cared to find them grayes or graye-clothes. Their condi-
tion was like that of the deyout Hindus in the country of Kamrup,
who, haying dedicated themselyes to their idol, liye for one year in
the height of enjoyment, appropriating eyerything that comes to
their hands ; but at the end of the period, one by one they go
and assemble at the idol temple, and cast themselyes under the
wheels of its car, or offer up their heads to the idol.
^ All the country, with the exception of that which was under
the khdlisa (exchequer), was held in yd^ir by the amirs. But from
the preyalence of indulgence and debauchery, extrayagance in
household expenditure, and accumulation of riches, there was no
means of maintaining the soldiery or of fostering the peasants.
When the seryices of the amira were required, they came into the
field attended only by a few slayes, or some young Mughal soldiers.
Able soldiers were nowhere to be found. Sh&hb&z Kh&n, the
mir-hakhahi^ reviyed the regulations of the ddgh (branding), and
the mahalli^ which were instituted by Sult&n 'A14u-d din Xhilji,
and were afterwards maintained by Sher Sh&h. It was also settled
that eyery amir should be first appointed commander of a score
^ [Since translating these passages, I And that Mr. Blochmann has also translated
this and several of the following paragraphs. See Ain-i Akbari, yoL i. p. 242.]
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MBrXH-I BADAUNr. 615
(blsH). 1 • ♦ • When he brought up the horses of those twenty
horsemen for the ddgh aocording to the regulation, he might be
promoted to be a 9adi (commander of a hundred) or higher.
They were also to keep elephants, horses, and camels suitable
to their rank. When they brought this number of horsemen for
inspection, they were to be treated according to their deserts and
position, and might attain to a mansab of 1000, 2000 or of 5000,
than which there is none higher. If they did not do so, they fell
from their rank.
But under this regulation also the ill-used soldiers fared worse.
For it was found that the amirs, having effected their objects,
dressed up many of their dependents (khdss-khaildn) and horse-
men {bdrgir) in the garb of soldiers, and bringing them to the
muster, they made up the complement of their mamab^ and received
jdgira in proportion. Then they dismissed the bdrgir$ until they
required them again, when they would once more enlist, accord-
ing to their requirements, a number of temporary soldiers, and
dismiss them again when no longer wanted.
The treasure, the collections, and the expenditure of the man-
mbddrs remained unaltered, but in every way dirt fell into the
plate of the poor soldier, so that he was unable to gii*d up his loins.
Tradesmen, such as weavers, cotton-dressers, carpenters, and
Hindd and Masulm&n grocers (bakkdl) would hire a horse or
charger, and bringing it up for the ddghy would obtain a mansab, and
would become a krari^ ahadi (guardsman), or ddkhili (substitute)
. of some one. A few days afterwards no trace would be found of
the hired horse or of the missing charger, and they were reduced
to the position of footmen.
There were many men who at the time of the royal inspection
at the public office were placed in the scales, bound hand and foot
with their garments on, and their weight would reach to two and
a half mans or three mam more or less. Afterwards it would be
found out that the clothes were hired, and the horse borrowed.
His Majesty used to say, " I with my eyes open, and aware of what
^ [Here follows an an intelligible passage.]
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516 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAlTNt.
I am abont, give something to these men, so that they may have
some means of living." After a while they would present themselves
again as ahadis of two horses, of one horse, or even of half a horse.
For two horsemen would be partners of one horse, and receiving
for it the forage allowance, amounting to six rupees, would divide
it between them. This sort of trade was carried on to a great
extent ; but for all this the Emperor's good fortune was so great
and flourishing that his enemies were everywhere annihilated,
and soldiers were not so much wanted. The amirs also were set
free from the unseemly blandishments of the uncircumcised.]
Ab&'l Fazl's second introduction to Akbar.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 198.] In 982 Abu-1 Fazl, now styled 'AlUuni
or " very learned," came a second time to Court. He set the
world in flames, and ^^ lighted up the lamp of the Sabdhis^ — ^a
proverbial way of saying he lighted his lamp by daylight. In
accord with the saying, *' He who contends gains his object," he
set himself in opposition to all sects, and bound the girdle of
reform about his loins. He presented a commentary on the
Ayatu-l kursi, which treated on the nice points and subtleties of
the Eur&n. People say that his father wrote it, but he presented
it, and got much praise. The words " tqfsir-i Akhari " give the
date of its composition. The Emperor received him graciously,
and (in order to humiliate the arrogance of the proud mulids)
looked upon him more favourably than he did upon me. The
reason of Abu-1 F&zrs antagonism and rancour was that at the
time of the persecution and massacre of heretics like Mir Habshi
and others, Shaikh Abdu-n Nabi, Makhddmu-1 Mulk, and the
learned in general took counsel together, and with one accord
they represented that Shaikh Mub&rak Mahdawi also was a
heretic, who was lost himself, and led others to perdition. Having
got tacit permission to repress and remove him, they sent officers
to apprehend him ; but as the Shaikh iiad absconded with his
sons, they broke the pulpit of his mosque. He then sought the
protection of Shaikh Salim Ghishti in Fatbpur, who was then at
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TARrKH-I BADAlTNr. 517
the height of his proeperity and eminence. Shaikh Salim sent
him something for his expenses, and recommended him to leave
the country, and fly to Gujar&t. As he obtained nothing in this
quarter, he went to Mirzd 'Aziz Koka, who represented to the
Xing, that Shaikh M ub&rak was a learned and indigent man, that
his children were clever, that he held no land in iVam, and
inquired what was the advantage of persecuting a worthy man.
So the Emperor gave up the intention of hurting him, and in a
short time everything went on to his heart's content. Shaikh
Abu-1 Fazl ingratiated himself with His Majesty by his unremit-
ting devotion to the King's service, by his temporizing disposi-
tion, by his duplicity, by his study of the King's temper and
sentiments, and by his boundless flattery. When he at last ob-
tained the opportunity, he took his revenge upon that sect whose
works and efforts have met with so little reward. He was the
cause not only of the destruction of these old labourers, but of the
disasters which fell upon all God's wise and holy servants, upon
the infirm and upon orphans, by the resumption of their allow-
ances in money and rent-free lands. * * When trouble and misery
fell upon them, he used frequently to quote this quatrain : —
" I have set fire to my bam with my own hands.
As I am the incendiary, how oan I complain of my enemy ?
No one is my enemy but myself,
Woe is me I I have torn my garment with my own hands,"
If any one, while remonstrating, cited the precepts of religious
men, he would say in reply, that the precept quoted was the
composition of such and such a grocer, such and such a cobbler,
such and such a currier, for he thought proper to reject all the
wise sayings of Muhammadan Shaikhs and Doctors.
The '"IhAdat'khdna} — Pokmical Di^cumma.
[Text, vol. \u p. 200.] [In the year 983 the buildings of the
'tbddat'khdna were completed. The cause of their erection was
» [See ntprd, p. 390 ]
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518 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAITNI.
this. In the coarse of the last few years the Emperor had
gained in succession many great and remarkable yictories, and
his dominion had grown in extent from day to day. Not an
enemy was left in the world. He had taken a liking for the
society of ascetics and the disciples of the celebrated Mn'iniyyah
(God rest his soall). He spent much time in discnssing the
Word of Ch)d and the sayings of the Prophet ; and he deroted
his attention to questions of Sufiam^ science, philosophy, law and
other matters. He passed whole nights in meditation upon God
and upon the modes of addressing him as yd M and yd hddi,
Reverence for the great Giver filled his heart. In order to show
his gratitude for some of his blessings, he would sit many a
morning alone in prayer and mortification upon the stone bench
of an old cell which lay near the palace in a lonely spot. Thus
engaged in meditation, he gathered the bliss of the early hours of
dawn. * ♦ ♦
Having completed the building (of the ^ibddaUkhdna)^ he
made a large hall in each of the four divisions of it. He also
finished the construction of the tank called anitptaldo. He called
the building 'idddat-khdna, and by degrees it became at last a
.^ On Fridays after prayers he would go from the new
khdnkdh of the Shaikhu-1 Isl&m, and hold a meeting in this
building. Shaikhs, learned and pious men, and a few of his own
companions and attendants, were the only people who were in-
vited. Discussions were carried on upon all kinds of instructive
and useful topics. *l ♦ ♦ Every Sabbath evening he invited
saiyida^ shaikhs^ doctors and nobles. But ill feeling arose in the
company about the seats and order of precedence, so His Majesty
ordered that the nobles should sit on the east side, the saiyids on
the west, the *ulamd on the south, and the sAaikha on the north.
iSis Majesty would go from time to time to these various parties,
and converse with them and ascertain their thoughts. Quantities
of perfume were used, and large sums of money were distributed
^ [The meaning is here doubtfnl. The text has three yariant readings, 'MM,
Uyddat, and Ubdrat-khdnOf no one of which seems applicable.]
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TAarKH-I BADAUNI. 519
as rewards of merit and ability among the worthj people who
obtained an enirj through the &yoar of the Emperor's atten*
dants« Many fine books which had belonged to Itim&d Kh&n
Gajar&ti, and had been acquired in the conquest of Gujar4t, were
placed in the royal library, but were subsequently brought out
and distributed by the Emperor among learned and pious men.
Among the rest he gare me a book called Anicdru-l mashkfit.* * *
One night the yein of the neck of the 'ulamd of the age swelled
up, and a great outcry and tumult arose. This annoyed His
Majesty, and he said to me (Bad&dn(), *^ In future report any one
of the assembly whom you find speaking improperly, and I will
have him turned out.'' I said quietly to Xsskt Kh&n, ^'According
to this, a good many would be expelled." His Majesty asked
what I had said. When I told him, he was much amused, and
repeated my saying to those who were near him.
He used to summon Makhdumu-1 Mulk Mauldnd 'Abdu-lla
Sult&npuri to that assembly, in order to annoy him ; and he set
up to argue against him H&ji Ibr&him and Shaikh Abd-1 Fazi,
then a new arrival, but now the prime leader of the New Religion
and Faith, or rather the infallible guide and expositor de omnibus
rehm et quibuadam aim. His Majesty used to interrupt the
Mauland at every statement, and at a hint from him his com-
panions also would interfere with interjections and observations,
and would tell queer stories about the Maul&n^, and exemplified
in his person the verse of the Eur&u, ^^ And some of you shall
have life prolonged to a miserable age.^]
The Pilgrimage.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 203.] One night (during the year 983), Kh4n
Jah&n mentioned that Makhdumu-1 Mulk had given an opinion
that in those days it was not a religious duty to^go on a pilgrim-
age, and that it was even sinful to do so. When he was asked his
reasons, he replied, that there were only two ways to Mecca, one
by 'Ir&k, the other by Gujar&t. By the former, a man must hear
abusive language from the Eazilb&shes (Persian Shi'as) \ by the
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520 'ABDU-L KADIB BADAUNf.
latter, he mast, before he embarks at sea, saffer the indigni<7 of
entering into an engagement with the Firingis, which engagement
was headed and stamped with portraits of the Viigin Mary and
Jesas Christ (upon whom be peace !), and so is tinctured with
idol worship. ^ Therefore both ways should be prohibited.
Another device of Makhdumu-l Mulk's was the trick by which
he avoided payment of the legal alms due upon his wealth.' At
the end of each year he used to make oyer all his property to his
wife, but before the year had run out he took it all back again.
It was said that he practised some other tricks, of which even the
Israelites would have been ashamed. Stories were told, one after
another, about his meanness and shabbiness, and baseness and
worldliness, and oppression, all which vices were exhibited towards
holy and deserving men, especially those of the Panj&b, and
which one by one came to light, verifying the saying, "There
is a day when secrets shall be disclosed." They told also other
stories founded upon his villany, sordid disposition, and con-
temptible conduct, and they ended by deciding that he ought to
be shipped off by force to Mecca, When he was asked if he
thought the pilgrimage a duty for himself, he replied in the
negative. About this time, Makhddmu4 Mulk began to &U
into discredit, and Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi ^ succeeded him in the
good graces of the King.
* Maffei mentions a toll, and Osorins tells ns that the Portngnese allowed no one to
sail without one of their passports. Faria-e-Sonsa says that these passports were not
unfreqnently mere ** letters of BeUerophon/* to the effect that "' The owner of this
ship is a very wicked Moor ; I desire that the first Portnguese captain to whom this
is shown may make a prize of her!*' — See Bowlandson, Thh/utnii Mt^akideem^
pp. 90, 104.
^ [Or, more fcimiliarly, how he avoided payment of inoome-tax.]
' An acconnt of each of these ecclesiastical judges is giyen among the Biographies
of learned men at the end of the work. That of 'Ahdn-n Nahi will be found among
these Extracts.
Respecting Makhd6mu-1 Mulk, an intelligent author, who has written on the sub-
ject of Akbar's deflections from the path of the Muhammadan religion, ohserres : —
" A learned and pious writer, Makhddmu-1 Mulk, published about this time a traet
injurious to Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi. He accused that teacher of haying been wrong-
fully instrumental to the deaths of Khizr Eh&n Shirw&ni, who had been condemned
for reviling the Prophet, and 'Ali Habsh, who had been charged with heresy. He
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TARrKH-I BADAITOT. 521
Rent-free Tenures.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 404.] This year the King gare orders that the
rent-free land throughont his dominions, whether in the shape
of ayma^ tnadad-m^dsh, wdkf or pensions, should not be con-
sidered valid, and that the revenue-officers should not recognize
them until the 8adr had approved the grants. The consequence
was, that the people whose rights were assailed flocked from the
farthest east of India, and from Bakkar in the west, to represent
their grievances. Whoever found a powerful friend among the
nobles and people at Court, secured his wishes, and whoever
could not obtain a similar introduction, had to give large bribes
to Saiyid ""Abdu-r Bastil, and all the subordinates of the Shaikh,
even to ihefardshes^ door-keepers, grooms and sweepers, and by
these means contrived at last to *^save his blanket from the
whirlpool.^' He who could not succeed in procuring either of
these passports, was well thrashed and kicked by the attendants ;
besides which, many of the unfortunates perished from the effect
of the hot air in that immense crowd. Although the King knew
all these particulars, yet such was his regard for the Sadr^ that
he could not be persuaded to interfere with his proceedings.
Whenever the Sadr sat in state and dignity in the diwdn-
hhdna^ and held public audience, the nobles would, now and then,
taking forward some learned and respectable man, represent his
case for consideration. But he used to receive them with little
respect, and after much entreaty and importunity, some able
man, who could explain the Hiddi/a, or any equally abstruse
book, would get a paltry hundred bigAas^ more or less, restored
to him, and the rest, of which he might have been in possession
added alio, that the Shaikh was unworthy to mount the pulpit, both because he was
subject to a bodily infirmity, and because he had been disaTowed by his own father
for his perrerse and undntiful conduct when a youth. To these attacks Shaikh
'Abdu-n Nabi replied by calling Makhd6mu-1 Mulk a heretic and a fool. Opinions
were dirided, some of the religious men sided with one, and some with another ; the
dispute ran high, and a complete schism ensued. The enemies of Isl&m took this
opportunity to augment the King's disgust and dissatisfiu^tion, and those impressions
becoming progressiFely more intense^ he lost in the course of fire or six years eyery
particle of his original belief.** — Orimtai Quarterly Magazimy toI. i. p. 51.
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622 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAtTNr.
for manj years, would be resamed. But the ordinary ran of
ignorant and worthless fellows, even down to Hindus, would get
as much land as they asked for, without question. From these
proceedings, learning and its professors declined in estimation
every day. Even in the middle of the assemblage, while seated
*' aloft in awfiil state," if the time for midday prayers came, he
would wash his hands, and care not bow much water he sprinkled
on the &ces and clothes of the surrounding nobles and courtiers.
They meekly submitted to the indignity, because they knew it
was to the advantage of their poor clients, and would bestow
upon the Sadr every kind of eulogium, compliment, and flattery,
to his heart's content, in the hope by this means to secure at
last some compensation for the insult.^ In the time of no former
king had any Sadr such extensive powers and jurisdiction.
The Author's Appointments and Emoluments.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 206.] About this time the King appointed me
a preacher, and directed me also to undertake the office of marking
the royal horses with the brand. I had no fixed salary, but I
was told from the first to act like a mansabddr of twenty in
bringing horses to the brand. Shidkh Abu-1 Fazl arrived at
Court about the same time, so that we were, as was said, loaves
out of the same oven. Yet he, beginning his service by marking
horses and attending to the mahalli^ managed by his intelligence
and time-serving qualities to raise himself to a mansab of two
thousand, and to the dignity of wazlr. But poor I, from my
inexperience and simplicity, could not manage to advance my8el£
I reflected within myself that there were still hopes of securing
contentment (that best of possessions!) by means of a madad"
m^dihi which would enable me to retire from the world, and
apply myself to study and devotion, while free firom the cares of
the world. But even in this I was doomed to be disappointed.
In the month of Shaww&l, 983, on my applying for leave of
absence, it was refused^ but I received a horse with suitable
> [TMb last eentenoe u a free rendering of a raUier offenaiye ezpreanon.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARrKH-I BADAITNI. 623
trappings, and a grant of a thousand bighaSy which was a mere
nothing, being only equal to an allowance for the maintenance of
twenty men, but in accordance with the unfriendly disposition of
the Badr and my unlacky fate. It was styled also in the grant
a madad^dnh} I represented that with this small tenure I
could not afford to be constantly in attendance at Court, to which
the King replied, that he would give me presents also during the
marches. Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi too obserred, that no person of
my quality had received from him so large a grant of land. As
for the presents which I was promised, though twenty-two years
have elapsed since my hopes were raised, I have received them
but once or twice, and the rest have been concealed behind the
veil of &te. These fine promises were nothing better than a
baseless mirage. I have performed services without reward, and
undergone restraints, firom which I can now be relieved only by
the goodness of Qod.
'' Alldhu Akharr
[Text, volii. p. 210.] [In these days (a.h. 983, a.d. 1575-6)
His Majesty asked how it would be if he ordered the words
Alldhu Akbar to be engraven on his Imperial seal and stamped
upon his coins. Several people said it would be very good. But
Haji Ibr&him objected. He said the phrase had an ambiguous
meaning, and that it would be better to substitute the verse of the
Eur&n, Lazikru AlldhiAkharu (^^ To think of God is the greatest
thing"), because it was free from ambiguity. His Majesty was
not pleased with this, and said it was self-evident that no creature,
in the depths of his impotence, could advance any claim to
Divinity. He had only looked upon the word as being apposite,
and there could be no sense in straining it to such an extent.] '
1 [That IB, an eleemosynary grant, not a mtauab or military tenure indicatiye of
dignity.]
' [The signification usually attaehed to these words ii <<Qod ii great"; but the
meaning "Akbar is God *' may be given to them.]
' [See Blochmann's Ain-i JMari, voL i. p. 166.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
524 'ABDF-L KA:DIR BADAtTNI.
The Emperor' a Heretical Aaaoeiates.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 211.] [In this year (983) there arrived Hakim
Abu-1 Fath Gll&ni, Hakim Hnm&yun (who sabseqnentlj chuiged
his name to Ham&ydn Eali, and lastly to Hakim Ham&m), and
Nuru-d din, who as a poet is known under the name of Kar&ri.
These three were brothers, and came from Gil&n (near the Caspian).
The eldest brother, by his subserviency, obtained an extraordinary
ascendancy over the Emperor. He flattered him openly, adapted
himself to every change in the religious ideas of His Majesty, and
pushing forward, he soon became a most intimate friend of Akbar.
Soon after there came to Court Mull& Muhammad of Yazd, who
got the nickname of Tazidi, He attached himself to the Emperor,
and concocted the most extravagant censures against the aahdba
(companions of the Prophet, the peace of Gh>d be upon them !). He
told extraordinary stories (about them), and tried hard to make
the Emperor a shVa. But this man was soon left behind by Bir-
bal, that bastard, and by Shaikh Abii-l Fazl and Hakim Abii-I
Fath. They turned the Emperor from the Religion, and made
him a perfect sceptic of inspiration^ the prophetic office, the
miracles and wonders, and the law. They carried matters to such
a length that I, the author, could no longer bear them company.
The result of all this, as regards each one of them, will be told
in its proper place. About the same time. His Majesty ordered
E&zi Jal&lu-d din and several other learned men to write a com-
mentary upon the Eur&n, but they fell to squabbling about it.
That scoffer. Deb Chand, E&jd of Manjhola, used to say, that if
the cow had not been greatly esteemed by the Almighty, she
would not have been mentioned in the first chapter of the Eur&n.
As history was read from day to day. His Majesty's fi&ith in the
Companions of the Prophet began to be shaken, and the breach
grew broader. The daily prayers, the fasts, and prophecies were
all pronounced delusions as being opposed to sense. Season,
not revelation, was declared to be the basis of religion. Europeans
also paid visits to him, and he adopted some of their rationalistic
tenets.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABrXH-I BADAUNr. 525
Death ofDdud Afghdn}
[Text, Yol. ii. p. 238.] [In the early part of the engagement, a
cannon-bidl struck the knee of Junaid, and broke his leg. When
the armies closed, defeat fell upon the Afgh&ns. The horse of
D&dd stuck fast in the mud, and Hasan Beg made D&iid prisoner,
and carried him to Kh&n-jah&n. The prisoner, being oppressed
with thirst, asked for water. Thej filled his slipper with water,
and took it to him. But as he would not drink it, Kh&n-jah&n
supplied him with a cupfull from his own canteen, and enabled
him to slake his thirst. The Kh&n was desirous of saving his
life, for he was a very handsome man ; but the nobles urged that
if his life were spared, suspicions might arise as to their loyalty.
So he ordered him to be beheaded. His execution was a very
clumsy work, for after receiving two chops he was not dead, but
suffered great torture. At length his head was cut off. It was
then crammed with grass and anointed with perfumes, and placed
in charge of Saiyid 'Abdu-Ua Kh&n.]
Personal to the Author.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 252.] In a.h. 985 the King, after visiting the
shrines of the holy saints in the neighbourhood of Dehli, went
towards P&lam on a shooting excursion. At the close of the
blessed month Bamaz&n, news reached me at Bew&ri, that at
Bas&war * a son had been born to me, of which happiness I had
been a long time in expectation. On this occasion I presented
an offering of a gold OBhraft-io the King, and requested he would
be good enough to name the child. After reading a prayer, he
inquired the name of my father and grandfather. I replied,
^' Muluk Sh&h was my father, and he was the son of H&niid.'"
He said, " I call your son *Abdu-l Hidi,**' — H&di being a name
which at that time he had, night and day, upon his lips. Not-
' [See page 400 tuprd.']
' This place, which is so frequently mentioned in the oonrse of this history, is
within the territory of Bharatp6r, on the road firom Agra to Jaipdr. It is situated
on the side of a rocky eminence, with a ruinous palace on its summit. Heher calls it
Fesh&war. See Narrative of a Journey^ yoL ii. p. 385.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
526 »ABDU-L KJCDIE BADAUNr.
withstanding that H&fiz Muhammad Am(n, the pfeacher,
constantly citing the seven imdmSy nrging me in hi^-flown
language not to commit this absurdity, and to inrite some learned
men to my house to read the whole Enr&n, in order to secure a
long life to my son, he could not persuade me, and at the end
of six months my son died. May Grod be pleased on his aooonnt
to pardon me in the day of judgment !
From Rew4ri I took fiye months'" leave, and went to Bas&war,
on account of sundry affairs of consequence, but I unavoidably
extended my absence to the period of a year. This unwarranted
neglect of duty and the machinations of my enemies made me
fall in the King's estimation, and by degrees I was entirely
forgotten. To this day even, although eighteen years have since
elapsed, I still perform my duty, but am not honoured with an
interview ; and I can neither go in search of other employ, nor
maintain a firm footing in my present position.
Eent'/ree Tenures.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 264.] K&zi 'Ali Baghd&df, grandson of Mir
E&zi Husain Maibazi, was deputed to the Panj&b to make in-
quiries respecting the lands held in rent-free tenure, undet the
name of madad-m^dsh and ayma. He was directed to resume
the old tenures, to measure them, and to include them all in one
district. The greatest anomalies had been perpetrated in this
department, which were all to be attributed to the perversity
of Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi and the dishonesty of his subordinates.
Religious Difficulties,
[Text, vol. ii. p. 255, a h. 986.] [His Majesty used frequently
to go to the *ibddat'khdna, and converse with the *ulamd and
the shaikhs^ especially on Sabbath evenings, and would sometimes
pass the whole night there. The discussions always turned
upon religion, upon its principles, and upon its divarications.
The learned doctors used to exercise the sword of their tongues
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABIKH-I BADAUNI. 527
upon each other, and showed great pugnacity and animosity, till
the various sects at length took to calling each other infidels and
perverts. * * * Innovators and schismatics artfully started their
doubts and sophistries, making right appear to be wrong, and
wrong to be right. And so His Majesty, who had an excellent
understanding, and sought after the truth, but was surrounded
by low irreligious persons, to whom he gave his confidence, was
plunged into scepticism. Doubt accumulated upon doubt, and
the object of his search was lost. The ramparts of the law and
of the true foith were broken do¥m ; and^ in the course of five or
six years, not one trace of Isl&m was left in him. The state of
affairs was changed.
There were many reasons for this. But as '^ small things are
suggestive of great ones, and fear betrays the culprit,'* I will
only mention a few. Learned men of various kinds and from
every country, and professors of many different religions and
creeds, assembled at his Court, and were admitted to converse
with him. ^ Night and day people did nothing but inquire and
investigate. Profound points of science, the subtleties of revela-
tion, the curiosities of history, the wonders of nature, of which
large volumes could only give a summary abstract, were ever
spoken of. His Majesty collected the opinions of every one,
especially of such as were not Muhammadans, retaining whatever
he approved of, and rejecting everything which was against his
disposition, and ran counter to his wishes. From his earliest
childhood to his manhood, and from his manhood to old age. His
Majesty has passed through the most diverse phases, and
through all sorts of religious practices and sectarian beliefs, and
has collected everything which people can find in books, with a
talent of selection peculiar to him, and a spirit of inquiry opposed
to every (Isl&mitic) principle. Thus a faith, based on some
elementary principles, traced itself on the mirror of his heart,
and, as the result of all the influences which were brought to bear
^ [The rest of this Extract is taken from Mr. Blochmann's translation. See Ain-i
Akbari, vol. i. p. 179.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
528 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAUNr.
on His Majesty, there grew, gradually as the outline on a stone,
the conviction in his heart that there were sensible men in all
religions, and abstemious thinkers, and men endowed with
miraculous powers, among all nations. If some true knowledge
was thus everywhere to be found, why should truth be confined
to one religion, or to a creed like Isl&m, which was comparatively
new, and scarcely a thousand years old ? Why should one sect
assert what another denies, and why should one claim a preference
without having superiority conferred on itself?
Moreover, Samanis^ and Brahmans managed to get frequent
private interviews with His Majesty. As they surpass other
learned men in their treatises on morals, and on physical and
religious sciences, and reach a high degree in their knowledge of
the future, in spiritual power and human perfection, they brought
proofe, based on reason and testimony, for the truth of their
own, and the fallacies of other religions, and inculcated their
doctrines so firmly, and so skilfully represented things as
quite self-evident which require consideration, that no man, by
expressing his doubts, could now raise a doubt in His Majesty,
even if mountains were to crumble to dust, or the heavens were
to tear asunder.
Hence His Majesty cast aside the Isl&mitic revelations re-
garding resurrection, the Day of Judgment, and the details
connected with it, as also all ordinances based on the tradition
of our Prophet. He listened to every abuse which the courtiers
heaped on our glorious and pure faith, which can be so easily
followed; and eagerly seizing such opportunities, he showed, in
words and gestures, his satisfaction at the treatment which his
original religion received at their hands.]
Christian Mishionariea. f^^ '
[Text, vol. ii. p. 260.] In a.h. 986 the missionaries of Europe,
who are called P&dris, and whose chief Pontifi*, called P&p&
(Pope), promulgates his interpretations for the use of the people,
^ fHinda ascetics, Sans. Sranuma^^Eo,^
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARfKH-I BADAlfNI. 529
and who issues mandates that even kings dare not disobey,
brought their Gospel to the King's notice, advanced proofs of the
Trinity, and affirmed the truth and spread abroad the knowledge
of the religion of Jesus. The King ordered Prince Mur&d to learn
a few lessons from the Gospel, and to treat it with all due respect,
and Shaikh Abu-1 Fazl was directed to translate it. Instead of
the inceptive ^^Bismillah," the following ejaculation was enjoined:
"In nomine Jesu Ohristi,"^ that is, "Oh! thou whose name is
merciiul and bountiful.'^ Shaikh Faizi added to this, " Praise
be to God! there is no one like thee — thou art hel'^ The
attributes of the abhorred Anti-Christ were ascribed to our holy
Prophet by these lying impostors.
Worahip of the Sun.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 260.] The accursed Birbal* tried to persuade
the King, that since the sun gives light to all, and ripens all grain,
fruits and products of the earth, and supports the life of mankind,
that luminary should be the object of worship and veneration ;
that the face should be turned towards the rising, not towards
the setting, sun ; that man should venerate fire, water, stones and
trees, and all natural objects, even down to cows and their dung ;
that he should adopt the frontal mark and the Br&hminical cord.
Several wise men at Court confirmed what he said, by representing
that the sun was the chief light of the world, and the benefactor
^ The original has in Persian ^:^^ .j j ^^3 ^Ij ^\, which can scarcely he
said to hear any meaning. Besides, the translation, 'yile as it is, shows that a foreign
language most have heen dealt with. It is not difficult to make ** in nomiue " out of
the first two Persian words. [The ahove are the words of the printed text, hut Mr.
Bloohmann slightly modifies and improves them, Ai ndm i tu Jeatu o KiristOf ** 0 thou
whose names are Jesus and Christ." — Ain-i Akbari, vol. i. p. 183.]
' This is the epithet hy which he is usually characterized hy this hitter enemy.
Respecting his death in the Yilsufzai country, he says, '^Birhal fied for fear of his
life, and heing slain, was included amongst the dogs of hell, and met with punish-
ment, slight when compared with his evil deserts. Akhar regretted his loss more
than that of any other of his chiefs, exclaiming, * Why did they not, at least, rescue
his body, that it might have, heen burnt P ' Afterwards, he derived consolation from
refiecting, that as Birbal was pure and undefiled, the rays of the grand luminary were
sufficient for his funeral pyre/'
VOL. V. 84
Digitized by VjOOQIC
630 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAimr.
of its inhabitants, that it was a friend to kings, and that kings
established periods and eras in conformity with its motions.^ This
was the caase of the worship paid to the san on the Nau-roz
Jaldliy and of his being induced to adopt that festival for the
celebration of his accession to the throne. Every day he used to
put on clothes of that particular colour which accords with that
of the regent-planet of the day. He began also, at midnight and
at early dawn, to mutter the spells, which the Hindus taught
him, for the purpose of subduing the sun to his wishes. He
prohibited the slaughter of cows, and the eating of their flesh,
because the Hindus devoutly worship them, and esteem their dung
as pure. Instead of cows, they sacrifice good men. The reason
was also assigned, that physicians have represented their flesh to
be productive of sundry kinds of sickness, and to be difficult of
digestion.
Ahii-l Fazl appointed Supeiiniendent of Fire-temples.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 261.] Fire- worshippers also came from Nausan
in Gujardt, proclaimed the religion of Zardusht as the true one,
and declared reverence to fire to be superior to every other kind of
worship. They also attracted the King's regard, and taught him
the peculiar terms, the ordinances, the rites and ceremonies of the
Kai&nians ; and at last he directed that the sacred fire should be
made over to the charge of Abu-1 Fazl, and that after the manner
of the Kings of Persia, in whose temples blazed perpetual fires,
he should take care it was never extinguished either by night or
day, — ^for that it is one of the signs of GK>d, and one light from
among the many lights of his creation.
From his earliest youth, in compliment to his wives, the
daughters of the Rdj&s of Hind, he had within the female apart-
ments continued to burn the hom^ which is a ceremony derived
^ [The printed text says only j^ S — • -^ ^ItoLl j\j— *'Ki"^ *"* tustained bf
it" — Mr. Blochmann*s translation runs, ** They said, the sun was * the greatest Uglit,*
the source of benefit for the whole world, the nourisher of kings, and the origia of
royal power." — Ain-i Akbari, voL i. p. 183.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARIKH-I BADAUNr. 631
from fire-worship j but on the New-year festival af the 25th year
after his accession, he prostrated himself both before the san and
before the fire in public, and in the evening the whole Court had
to rise up respectfully when the lamps and candles were lighted*
On the festival of the eighth day after the sun's entering Virgo
in this year, he came forth to the public audience-chamber with
his forehead marked like a Hindu, and he had jewelled strings
tied on his wrist by Br&hmans, by way of a blessing. The chiefs
and nobles adopted the same practice in imitation of him, and
presented on that day pearls and precious stones, suitable to their
respective wealth and station. It became the current custom also
to wear the rdkhi on the wrist, which means an amulet formed
out of twisted linen rags. In defiance and contempt of the true
faith, every precept which was enjoined by the doctors of other
religions, he treated as manifest and decisive. Those of Isldm,
on the contrary, were esteemed follies, innovations, inventions of
indigent beggars, of rebels, and of highway robbers, and those who
professed that religion were set down as contemptible idiots.
These sentiments had been long growing up in his mind, and
ripened gradually into a firm conviction of their truth.
Infallibility of the Emperor}
[Text, vol. ii. p. 270.] [In the same year (987), a declaration
made its appearance, which bore the signatures and seals of
Makhdumu-1 Mulk, Shaikh *Abdu-n Nabi Sadru-s Sudiir^ Kazi
Jaldlu-d din Mult&ni, who was Kdziu-l Kuzdty of Sadr-i Jah&n,
the mufti general, of Shaikh Mub&rak, the most* learned man
of the age, and of Gh&zi Khdn Badakhshf, who had no rival
in the science of metaphysics. The object of this declaration
was to establish the complete superiority of the Imdm-i ^ddil
(just leader) over the Mujtahid (chief lawyer); and to make
his judgment and choice a preponderating authority on divers
questions, so that no one could possibly reject (his) commands,
* [See Blocbmaim*8 translation, Ain-i Ahhari^ vol. i. p. 185.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
632 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAITNI.
either in religioas or political matters, but must by them be self-
convinced.^ * • * I (jQpy ii^Q document verbatim.
^Preamble — Citations from the Kurdn and the Traditions,']
'' We have agreed and do decree that the rank of a Sultdn-i ^ddil
(just ruler) is higher in the eyes of God than the rank of a
Mujtahid. Further we declare that the Sult&n of Isl&m, the
refuge of mankind, the leader of the &ithful, the shadow of Gt)d
in the world — Abu-1 Fath Jal&lu-d din Muhammad Akbar
P&dsh&h-i Gh&zi (whose kingdom God perpetuate !) — is a most
just, wise, and God-fearing King. Therefore, If there be a variance
of opinion among the mujtahids upon questions of religion, and
His Majesty, in his penetrating understanding and unerring judg-
ment, should incline to one opinion, and give his decree for the
benefit of mankind and for the due regulation of the world, we do
hereby agree that such a decree is binding on us and on the whole
nation. Further we declare that should His Majesty, in his
unerring judgment, issue an order, which is not in opposition to
the Xur&n, and which is for the benefit of the nation, it shall be
binding and imperative on every man. Opposition to it shall
involve damnation in the world to come and loss of religion and
property in this life. This document has been written with
honest intentions, for the glory of God, and the propagation of
Isl&m, and is signed by us, the principal ^ulamd and lawyers, in
the month of Rajab, 987 Hijra."'
The draft of this document was in the handwriting of Shaikh
Mubdrak. The others had signed it against their will. But the
Shaikh of his own accord added at the bottom that he had most
willingly sigiied his name, for it was a matter which for several
years he had been anxiously looking forward to.
^ [This is a somewliat difficult passage. My rendering diffen materially from Mr.
Blochmanu's ; but though I have ventured to disagree with him, I hare so much
respect for his authority, that I subjoin his version. '< The object of the document
was to settle the superiority of the Imdm^i 'ddil (just leader) over the Mujtakid^ which
was proved by a reference to an ill-supported authority. The whole matter is a ques-
tion, regarding which people differ in opinion ; but the document was to do away the
possibility of disagreeing about laws, whether political or religious, and was to bind
the lawyers in spite of themselves."]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TAWKH-I BADAimr. 533
After His Majesty had obtained this legal opinion, the road
of deciding religious questions was opened, the superiority of
the judgment of the Imdm was established, and opposition was
rendered impossible. The legal distinction between lawful and
unlawful was set aside, the judgment of the Imdm became para-
mount oyer the dogmas of the law, and Isl&m was called Taklid
(counterfeit). ♦ ♦ ♦ His Majesty had now determined publicly to
use the formula, ^* There is no God but GFod, and Akbar is GK>d's
representative.'' But as he found that the extravagance of this
led to commotions, he restricted the use of it to a few people in
the harem,']
Experimental Seclusion of Infants,
[Text, vol. ii. p. 288.] [In this year (989 h.), in order to
verify the circumstances of the case (of the man who heard
without ears ^), an order was issued that several suckling infants
should be kept in a secluded place &r from habitations, where
they should not hear a word spoken. Well-disciplined nurses
were to be placed over them, who were to refrain from giving
them any instruction in speaking, so as to test the accuracy of
the tradition which says, '^ Every one that is bom is bom with
an inclination to religion," by ascertaining what religion and sect
these in&nts would incline to, and above all what creed they
would repeat. To carry out this order, about twenty sucklings
were taken from their mothers for a consideration in money, and
were placed in an empty house, which got the name of Dumb-
house. After three or four years the children all came out dumb,
excepting some who died there — thus justifying the name which
had been given to the house.]
Friendship of the Author of the Tabakdt-i Akbari,
[Text, vol. ii. p. 296.] [One day when near Kdbul, the
Emperor directed the Sadr-i Jahdn to make out and present
to him a list of the pensioners {ahl-i sa'ddat) who were present
^ [See tuprdf p. 419.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
634 'ABDTJ-L KADIR BADAUKf.
with the army, and another of those who were absent. When
mj (the author's) name came up, the late Ehw&ja Nizama-d din
Ahmad, the author of the Tdrikh-i Nizdmi^ with whom I had
become acquainted about a year before that time, but who was
as friendly as if I had known him a hundred years, in the great
kindness and consideration which he showed to all his friends,
and to me in particular^ caused me to be put down and returned
as sick.]
Innovations}
[Text, vol. ii. p. 301.] [His Majesty was now (990 h.) firmly
convinced that a period of 1000 years from the mission of the
Prophet was the extent of the duration of the religion of Isl&m,
and that period was now accomplished. No obstacle remained
to promulgating the designs which he secretly held. He was
now free from the respect and reverence due to the shaikhs and
'ulamd, and from the deference owing to their authority. To
his entire satisfaction, he was abk to carry out his project of
overturning the dogmas and principles of Isl&m, to set up his
novel, absurd, and dangerous regulations, and to give currency
to his own vicious belief.
The first order which he issued was, that the *' Era of the
Thousand '' should be used upon the coins, and that a TdrikA-i
Al/i, or history of the thousand years, from the rihiatj or death
of the Prophet, should be written. Other extraordinary innova-
tions were devised as political expedients, and such strange
orders were given that men's minds got quite perplexed. ♦ ♦ ♦
Wine was allowed, if required, for strengthening the body, and
if prescribed by doctors; but that no strife and disturbance
might arise, severe punishments were prescribed for drunkenness,
carousals, and rows. For the sake of proper surveillance. His
Majesty established a wine-shop near the palace, and put the
wife of the porter in charge of it, because she belonged to the
wine-selling class. The price of wine was fixed by regulations,
1 [See Ain-i Akbari, toI. L p. 191.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TARIKH-I BADAUNr. 535
and any sick person could obtain wine on having his own name
and that of his father and grandfather written down by the clerk
of the shop. Of coarse, people got fictitious names put down,
and obtained supplies of wine. It was, in fact, nothing else but
a licensed shop for drunkards. Some people even said that pork
was used in the manufacture of the wine (but God knows I).
Notwithstanding all restrictions, much mischief and trouble
arose, and though many people were punished every day, there
was no sufficient check. So (the result verified) the saying,
" Upset, but do not spill."
The next matter was that the prostitutes of the realm, who
had collected at the capital, and could scarcely be counted, so
large was their number, had a separate quarter assigned to them
outside the town, which was called Shait&npura or Devilsville.
A keeper, a deputy (ddrogha), and a clerk also were appointed
over it, to write down the names of those who resorted to prosti-
tutes, or who took them to their houses. People might indulge
in such connexions, provided the toll-collectors were cognizant ;
but without permission no one was allowed to take dancing-girls
to his house. If any well-known courtier wanted to have a
virgin, the ddrogha made a statement of the &ct, and got per-
mission from the Court. * * Drunkenness and folly led to blood-
shed, and though some persons were brought to punishment,
others walked about proudly and insolently parading their
delinquencies. His Majesty called some of the principal prosti-
tutes before him in private, and asked them who had deprived
them of their virginity. After getting the names, some of the
most renowned and trusty grandees were punished and con-
demned, and many of them were kept for a long time in
confinement.
Another matter was the interdiction of beef, and the declara-
tion of its being defiling. The reason of this was, that from his
youth His Majesty had associated with Hindu libertines, and
had thus got implanted in his heart a reverence for the cow,
which, in their opinion, is a cause of the preservation of the
Digitized by VjOOQIC
536 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAITNI.
world. The daughters of the ^reat B&j&s of Hind, of whom
he had several in his harems obtained such an ascendancy over
him as to make him abstain from eating beef, garlic, or onions,
and from associating with men who wore beards and such like
persons.]
Declaration of Adherence to the Divine Faith.^
[Text, vol. ii. p. 304.] [Ten or twelve years after the com-
mencement of these changes, matters came to such a pitch that
wretches like Mirz& J&ni, chief of Tatta, and other apostates,
wrote their declarations to the following effect : '' I, so and so,
son of so and so, have willingly and cheerfully renounced the
false and pretended religion of Isl&m, which I have received from
my ancestors, and have joined the Divine Faith (Din-i Ildhi) of
Sh&h Akbar, and have assented to its fourfold rule of sincerity —
(the readinesfl to) sacrifice wealth and life, honour and religion."
These writings — there could be no more effectual letters of
damnation — were handed in to the Mvjtahid of the new creed
(Abd-1 Fazl).
[p. 325.] His Majesty gave his religious system the name of
Tauhid'% Udhi^ Divine Monotheism.]
Wealth of Mahhdumu4 Mulk.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 311.] [Makhdumu-I Mulk died at Ahmad-
&b&d, and in the year 990 X&zi 'Ali was sent from Fathpur to
ascertain what property he had left. When he came to Lahore,
he found such vast treasures as defied the key of conjecture to
open their lock. Several chests of ingots' of gold were dis-
covered in his sepulchre, where he had caused them to be buried
as corpses. And the wealth which lay open to the eyes of the
world was such that none but the Creator could ascertain it. All
these bricks of gold, together with his books, which he looked
1 [See Ain-i Akbari, vol. i. p. 194.]
» [khitAt, Ut. " bricks."]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TXRIKH-I BADAITNI. 637
upon as bricks, were placed in the public treasury. His sons
several times underwent torture, and fell into abject poverty.]
Translation of the Mahd-bhdrat.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 320.] In the year 990 His Majesty as-
sembled some learned Hindus, and gave them directions to write
an explanation of the Mahd-bMrat, and for several nights he
himself devoted his attention to explain the meaning to Nakib
E3i&n, so that the Kh&n might sketch out the gist of it in
Persian. On a third night, the Xing sent for me, and desired
me to translate the Mahd-hhdrat^ in conjunction with Nakib
Kh&n. The consequence was that in three or four months I
translated two out of the eighteen sections, at the puerile absur-
dities of which the eighteen thousand creations may well be
amazed. Such injunctions as one never heard of — what not to
eat, and a prohibition against turnips ! But such is my fate, to
be employed on such works. Nevertheless, I console myself with
the reflection, that what is predestined must come to pass i
After this, Mull& Shi and Nakib Xh&n together accomplished
a portion, and another was completed by Sult&n H&ji Th&nesari
by himself. Shaikh Faizi was then directed to convert the
rough translation into elegant prose and verse, but he did not
complete more than two sections. The H&ji aforesaid again
wrote it,^ correcting the errors which had appeared in his first
translation, and settliilg the conjectures which he had hazarded.
He had revised a hundred sheets, and, nothing being omitted, he
was about to give the finishing touch, when the order was received
for his dismissal, and he was sent to Bakar. He now resides in
his own city (Th&nesar). Most of the scholars who were em-
ployed upon this translation are now with the Kauravas and
P&ndavas. May those who survive be saved by the mercy of
God, and may their repentance be accepted !
The translation was called JRazm-ndma, and when fairiy en-
* [The printed text of the Bibl. Tnd. Bays dopardh, " two portions ; " but there is
no such limit in the text printed with the first edition of this work.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
538 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAUOT.
grossed and embellished with pictures, the nobles had orders to
take copies, with the blessiug and favour of God. Shaikh Abu-I
Fazl, who had already written against our religion, wrote the
Preface, extending to two sheets. God defend us from his
infidelities and absurdities !
Homes of Charity,
[Text, vol. ii. p. 324.] In a.h. 991 the King erected two
buildings outside the city where he might feed faMrt^ both
Musulm&n and Hindu; one he called Blhairpitra^ the other
Dhannpiira. Some of Abfi-1 Fazl's people had the charge, and
used to spend the Eling's money in procuring food. As ihejogis
also used to flock there in great numbers, a separate receiving-
house was built for them, and called JogipUra. Nightly meetings
were held in private with some of these men, and they used to
employ themselves in various follies and extravagancies, in con-
templations, gestures, addresses, abstractions and reveries, and
in alchemy, fascination and magic. The King himself studied
alchemy, and used to exhibit the gold which he made. One
night in the year, called Shiv-rdi, was appointed for a grand
assembly of jogia from all parts of the country, on which occa-
sion he would eat and drink with the best of them ; and used
to be gratified by their assurances of a life three or four times
lono:er than the natural life of man.
"e"^
Bdm Chand Bhath.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 335.] [The Emperor stayed four months at
All&h&bdd, and from thence he sent Zain Kh&n Koka and
Birbal, who was formerly in the service of B&j& B>4m Ghand
Bhath, on an embassy to Ghaur&garh. B&m Ghand consented
to do homage, and after attending to the duties of hospitality,
lie detained Zain Kh&n, and proceeded along with him to Fath-
pur, to wait upon the Emperor. He presented a most valuable
tribute of one hundred rubies and other precious stones. The
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TARfKH-I BADAlTNr. 639
value of one of the rubies exceeded 50,000 rupees. He left his
son Bdbu in attendance on His Majesty, but the young man
soon obtained leave to return home. Soon afterwards he went
to his last home in the hottest hell. This B&m Chand has left
no equal behind him for princely generosity. Among his other
gifts, he gave a kror of gold {kror zar) to the minstrel Midn
T&n Sen in one day. The Mi&n did not wish to leave the B&j&,
but a guardsman was sent to bring him back.]
IVanslation of the Rimdyana.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 336.] [In this year the King commanded me
to make a translation of the Rdmdyanay a composition superior
to the Mahd'bhdraL It contains 25,000 shloks^ and each ahlok
is a verse of sixty-five letters. The hero of its story is R&m
Chand, King of the city of Audh^ who is also called B&m, and
whom the Hindus worship as a god in human form.]
[Text, vol. ii. p. 366.] [In the month of Jumdda-1 awwal
A.H. 999, I completed the translation of the Bdmdj/an, having
occupied four years in the work. When I presented the book,
it was greatly praised.]
Anniversary of the Coronation,
[Text, vol. ii. p. 342.] In a.h. 993 the King held the festival
of the anniversary of his coronation, according to the practice
established in olden time, during which the King received enter-
tainment from every shopkeeper,^ and appropriate presents from
the nobles, so that even food, scents, and the profits of dancers
and fiddlers were carried away into the treasury. From a
mansabdar of 5000 to a humble footman, all had to present
offerings ; and even I, this powerless atom, who was held in no
* [The words are—
So that the contributions from the shops were presented by the nobles. In a similar
passage relating to the year 991 (p. 321), it is said that the shops were regularly
aUotted to the nobles jfj^ ^.^^ \^\^^ |^ly\ijj J;jL» jji-»JJ.]
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540 'ABDU-L KXDIB BADAITNI.
account at all, except that I used to be styled hazdti^ from
holding 1000 Ughas rent-free, and was accustomed to liken
myself to the old woman in the story of Joseph (God*s blessing
on him!), had to present my forty rupees, which received the
honour of being accepted. I do not like my position, and should
be glad to be in any other !
During this festival, the Kings's eldest son received a mansah
of 12000 ; the second, one of 9000 ; and the third, one of 7000.
Rdjd Todar Mai
[Text, vol. ii. p. 366. Thirty-third Year.] [Kalij Kh&n now
returned from Gujar&t, bringing various offerings, and an order
was issued associating him with B&j& Todar Mai in the adminis-
tration of the Civil and Revenue business. The Raja was now
grown feeble and senile^ and one night an enemy in ambush
inflicted a superficial wound upon him with a sword.]
Tlie Authoi^B Lafida.
[Text, vol. 11. p. 368.] In a.h. 996 the King called to mind
something about the book which I was then translating, and
directed Hakim Abd-l Fath to give me a horse, a shawl, and
some other presents. He Ijien observed to Sh&h Fathu-lla
'Azdu-d daulah, that the whole of Bas&war had been granted
to him in jdgir^ with all its ayma land, and that as I, a native
of Baddun, had thus lost my madad-nCdsh land^ His Majesty had
conferred upon me some of equal value in Baddiin, in lieu of it.
Shah Fathu-lla then presented in a bag an offering of 1000
rupees, which, by exactions and other most oppressive means,
his agents had recovered from the wretched widows and orphans
of Bas&war; and upon his representing that his officers had
collected this surplus from the ayma lands (fraudulently alienated
from the public rent-roll), the King told him to retain the money
for himself. Three months after this the Sh&h died, and when
myfarmdn was engrossed, I took leave for a year, went first to
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TAErKH-I BADAUNr. 541
Bas&war, and then to Bad&uu, from which place I wished to make
a journey to Gujarfit, to see Mirz& Niz&mu-d din Ahmad, but
delays occurred to prevent my carrying this intention into eflFect.
Itdjd of Kumdim.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 366.] In a.h. 996, the Rajd of Kum4dn
arrived at Lahore from the Siw4lik hills, for the purpose of
paying his respects. Neither he nor his ancestors (the curse
of God on them !) could ever have expected to speak face to
face with an Emperor. He brought several rare presents, and
amongst them a Tibet cow and a musk-deer, which latter died
on the road from the effect of the heat. I saw it with my own
eyes, and it had the appearance of a fox. Two small tusks
projected from the mouth, and, instead of horns, it had a slight
elevation, or bump. As the hind quarters of the animal were
enveloped in a cloth, I could not examine the whole body. They
said that there were men in those hills^ who had feathers and
wings, and who could fly, and they spoke of a mango-tree
in that country which yields fruit all the year round. God
knows whether this is true !
The Emperor's Illness.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 376.] [In this year the Emperor was some-
what indisposed. He had pains in his stomach, and other
disturbances which no one could account for. Through this
inability to understand his ailment, suspicions arising from
malevolence were cast upon the eldest prince, and whispers of
poison flew about.]
The Coinage.
[Text, vol. ii. p. 380.] [Among the edicts issued (in the
thirty-seventh year of the reign), was one that all the dirhams
and dinars bearing the devices of former kings should be melted
and sold for the price of the gold and silver, so that not a trace
of them should remain in the world. The various ashrqfis and
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542 'ABDU-L KADIR BJlDKVU^T.
rupees of the Emperor^s coinage, whether old or recent, were at
once to be put in circulation, and no difference whatever between
them and the old coins was to be recognized. Kalfj Kh&n
endeavoured to enforce this order. Sarrd/s were every day
called up ; bonds were taken from them, and fines were inflicted
on them. As a last resource, some were put to death. But
for all this they did not refrain from counterfeiting the coin
{kalldbi). Orders and instructions upon this subject were written
and sent to the most remote parts of the dominions, but without
effect, until Khw&ja Shamsu-d din Khw4f[, the dkwdny succeeded
in putting all these orders in force.]
Shaikh 'Abdu-n NaU.
[Text, vol. iii. p. 79.] Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi, Sadru-B Sudur^
was son of Shaikh Ahmad, son of Shaikh Abdu-1 Kudus, of
Gangoh. He went several times to Mecca and Medina, and
studied the traditions. * ♦ * He put on the appearance of great
piety. When he was appointed to the Saddrat^ he distributed
among the people an immense quantity of madad-m'dsh, tcakf,
and pensions. No Sadr during any former reign had so much
power, and no one gave away one-tenth of the tcakf which he
did.^ The King was for some time so intimate and unceremonious
* It is quite impossible to reconcile this eulogy with the taunting and acrimonioiis
tone adopted at p. 521 ; nor does any conceivable variety in the reading of the two
texts admit of any essential difference of sentiment ; unless, indeed, we consider that
the grasping /So^r was Mnkhddmu-1 Mulk, and not Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi; which
appears opposed to the whole tenor of the text, and especially to 'Abdu-n Nabfa
declaration at the close of the Extract. It is scarcely permitted us to imagine that
so grave an author might possibly be indulging in a little playful irony.
The duties and responsibilities of the Sadr resembled tiiose of a ChanceUor, or an
Ecclesiastical Registrar ; the chief difference being, that when the Sadr, as we hare
seen to be frequently the case, plundered the property of helpless widows and oiphaos,
he was flayed alive, or trodden to death by elephants. As such punishments would
be esteemed barbarous in modern times,* and as our tortuous system of law generally
delights to exercise its sophistries and subtilties in behalf of notorious criminals,
there can be little doubt that, if any Sadr were in these days to prostitute the sacred
obligations of his office to such infernal purposes, he would escape with impunity : —
at least upon earth.
Committunt eadem diverso orimina fato ;
lUe craoem pretium Bcelerie tulit, hie diadema.
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TABrKH-i BADAimr. 643
with him, that he would rise to adjust the Shaikh's slippers
when he took his leave. At last, through the enmity of Makh-
dumu-1 Mulk and some other ill-disposed and deceitful doctors,
he fell in the King'^s estimation, and began to be treated very
differently. The chief reason of the change was this : —
At the time that the King arrived at Fathpur from B&nsw&ra,
K&Li ''Abdu-r Rahim, of Muttra, complained to the Shaikh that
a rich and obstinate Brahman had taken all the materials, which
he had collected for the building of a mosque, and applied them
to his own purposes in building a temple for an idol, and that
when he remonstrated with him, the Br&hman, in the presence of
a multitude of people (may his mouth be crammed with mud !),
applied foul and abusive language to the Prophet (the peace of
God rest with him !), and grossly reviled all Musulm&ns. When
the Brdhman was summoned before the Shaikh, he refused to
come, so Shaikh Abu-1 Fazl was sent to bring him. Shaikh
Abu-1 Fazl on his return represented what he had heard from
the people of Muttra ; namely, that the Br&hman certainly had
used foul language. Upon this, the learned in the law decided,
some of them for death, some for public exposure and fine.
They were consequently divided into two parties, and disputed
at great length on the subject. Although the Shaikh went to
ask for leave to punish him capitally, the King would give no
distinct reply, but said vaguely, that the Shaikh was himself
responsible for carrying into execution the sentence of the law,
and inquired why he consulted him. During this long suspense
the Brahman continued in prison, and notwithstanding that the
ladies of the royal household used their exertions to get him
released, yet out of regard to the Shaikh, the King would not
give his consent.
The Shaikh continued to importune the King for a reply, but
all he could get was, that he had already expressed his opinion,
and the Shaikh knew what it was. When the Shaikh returned
to his home, he immediately issued orders for the Brdhman's
death. When the King learnt this, he was very angry. The
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644 'ABDU-L KADIR BADAUNT.
ladies within, aud the Hindus without, the palace, exclaimed,
'' Is this the roan whom you have promoted and favoured, and
has he reached to such a pitch of insolence as not to regard
your wishes, and to put a man to death for the mere purpose of
displaying his power and authority?" They continued to pour
such-like complaints into the ears of the King, so that he could
no longer endure them. ♦ ♦ ♦ One night, at Anup-tal&o, a con-
clave of divines assembled, from whom he inquired their opinions
on the subject. * * The King at last singled me out, and said,
'' When ninety and nine opinions are in favour of a sentence of
death, and a hundredth in favour of acquittal, do you think it
right that the muftis should act upon the latter. What is your
opinion P" I replied, that it was a legal maxim that punishment
should not be inflicted where there was any doubt. The King
was sorrowful, and said, '' Was not Shaikh 'Abdu-n NabL aware
of this maxim, that he killed that unfortunate Br&hmanP" I
replied, that the Shaikh was certainly a wise man, and that he
no doubt had acted in direct contravention of the law, but that
he might possibly have adopted that course for the sake of
expediency. ♦ ♦ ♦
The King's agitation was so great that his hsdr stood on end,
like that of a roused lion, and some people behind me whispered
that I should not carry the controversy any further. All of
a sudden, he turned towards me and said, ^^ You are not at all
right." Upon which I made a low bow, and retired to a little
distance. From that day I have abandoned my presumptuous and
controversial manner, and take my place apart from the groupe
which surround the throne. It is only now and then that I venture
to advance, and make my obeisance at a respectful distance.
It was on this account that Shaikh 'Abdu-n Nabi's prosperity
declined. * * * He died in the year 991.
Shaikh FaizL
[Text, vol. iii. p. 299.] Commonly called the " chief of Poets."
He excelled in the arts of versification, enigmatic lines and
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABrKH-I BADAC7Nr. 646
rhyming. In historj, in philology, in medicine, in letter-
writing, and in composition, he was without a rival. His earlier
compositions in verse bear his titular name of Faizi, which he
subsequently dignified into Faiy&zi, in order that it might cor-
respond with the grammatical amplification of ^AUami, by which
his younger brother, Abu-1 Pazl, was known; but the change
was ill-omened, for he survived to enjoy his last title only one
or two months, and then met his death with great alarm and
inquietude.
As an author, he was sometimes serious, sometimes jocose,
conceited, proud, and malevolent. He was full of hypocrisy,
malignity, dissimulation, ambition, arrogance, and egotism. In
his obstinacy and animosity he reviled the earlier and later
Khalifas and disciples, the ancestors and descendants of the
Prophet, the wise and the excellent, the pious and the saintly,
and, in short, all Musulm&us in general, and ridiculed the prin-
ciples of their faith, privately and publicly, by night and by
day. His conduct was so abominable, that even Jews, Christians,
Hindus, Sabians, and Guebres are considered a thousand times
less odious. He acted entirely against the tenets of the Muham-
madan religion. What was forbidden in that, was lawful to him,
and f>ice verad.
He composed a commentary upon the Kurdn, consisting
entirely of letters without diacritical points, in order to oblite-
rate his infamy, but the waters of a hundred oceans will never
cleanse the stain he has contracted, until the day of judgment.
He composed it in the very height of his drunkenness and
impurity, and dogs were allowed to tread on every letter of it.
In the same spirit of pride, stubboraness, and infidelity, he met
his final doom, and in a manner which I trust no one may again
see, or hear of; for when the King paid him a visit on his
death-bed, he barked at his face like a dog, as the King himself
acknowledged in public; his whole face was swollen, and his
lips appeared black, insomuch that the King observed to Abd-l
Fazl, '' What is this blackness P Surely the Shaikh has been
TOU V. 34
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546 'ABDTJ-L KADIR BADAlTNr.
mbbing dentifrice on his teeth, according to the Indian fashion?"
"No," replied Abu'-l Fazl, "it is the stain of th© blood which
he has been spitting." ^ In truth, even this scene was bat a
small retribution for the blasphemies of which he had been
guilty, and for the contumelies which he had uttered against
the Prophet, the last of the apostles (the peace of God be upon
him, and all his family!). Several abusive chronograms were
written on the occasion, of which the following are only a
few. ♦ * *
He had composed poetry for forty years, correct enough in
point of versification and language, but utterly destitute of
beauty, either in sentiment or religion.* He has joined the dry
bones together pretty well, but the skeleton has no brains. The
condiments of verse are sufficiently abundant, but quite tasteless,
* * * as is proved by no one remembering his lines, although the
very vilest poets meet with some quoters and admirers. Never-
theless, he wrote, what with diwdns and masna^^ more than
twenty thousand lines, and, notwithstanding that he expended
the rich revenues of his jdgir upon their transcription, and in
sending copies to his friends, far and near, not one of them ever
read his poems twice. The following verses of his own selection
were given by him to Niz&mu-d din Ahmad and others, as a
memento. * * ♦ * Pray tell me what beauty there is in them !
At the time that Shaikh Faizi had gone to take charge of his
office of the deputyship of the Dakhin, I wrote him two letters
from the foot of the Kashmir hills, and informed him of the
cause of the King's displeasure and his refusal to allow me to
pay my respects. Upon this he wrote to the King a letter of
recommendation, which was couched in the following words, and
despatched it, on the 10th of Jum&da-l awwal, a.h. 1000, from
^ At the close of the hiBtorical narrative, the author tells us that Faiii had faaen
spitting hlood for six months hefore his death, and that his harking like a dog was
the consequence of his making those animals his constant companions night and day,
to insult the Musulm&ns, to whom they are an abomination.
* This is by no means the general estimate of his poetry, which is greatly admired
in India, even to this day. [The sense of the text is accurately preaerred here, bat
the translation is somewhat amplified. — £d.]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
TABTKH-I BADAlTNr. 647
Ahmadnagar to Lahore, and orders were given to Abu-1 Fazl to
place it in the Akbar-ndmay so that it might be generally read.
" May it please Tour Majesty ! Two friends of MullA *Abdu-l
!K&dir hare arrived from Bad&un in great distressr and sorrow,
representing that the MulU has been for some time ill, and that
in oonseqaence of his failing to perform the promise which he
made respecting his return, the servants of the government have
treated him with great severity, and that there is no knowing
what the result of it may be. They inquired also if the pro*
longed illness of the Mull4 was known to Tour Majesty.
'^ Healer of the broken-hearted ! Mulla Abdu-I E!&dir is a
very able man, and is well acquainted with all the sciences
usually cultivated by the MuU&s of Hindustan, and he was also
a pupil of my father's. Your slave has been acquainted with
him for nearly thirty-seven years. Besides being a person of
deep learnings he is a poet, and composes elegantly in Arabic
and Persian. He is not a mere imitator, but an original thinker.
He also knows a little of Hindu astrology and accounts, and is
not at a loss in any field of knowledge. He is acquainted with
foreign, as well as with native music, and can play at both the
small and big games of chess ; moreover, he writes a pretty good
hand. Notwithstanding that he possesses all these accomplish-
ments, he is content and entirely divested of avarice, of equable
temperament, and a person of excellent morals and manners,
but poor, and with no fixed income. He is sincere and warm-
hearted, and has every confidence in Your Majesty's kindness.
''At the time that the army was before Kombhalmir, he
volunteered to join it. There he did the State good service, and
received a donation for his wounds. Jal&l Kh&n Eorchi, when
he first introduced him at Court, said, ' I have brought a preacher
to present to Your Majesty, that Tour Majesty may be gratified.'
Mir Fathu-Ua also represented something respecting the Mull&'s
circumstances, and my worthy brother, Abu-1 Fazl, also knows
him well. Put according to the proverb, * A grain of good luck
is better than a sack full of skill.'
Digitized by VjOOQIC
548 'ABDU-L KICDIB BADAIflfr.
'-As the Court is the abode of the yirtaoos, I hare taken the
liberty to bring thia destitate person to notice, and to place him
before the foot of the throne, as if I was myself present. Did I
not advocate his claims at this tiqie, I should consider myself
guilty of an offence against the cause of truth and justice.
^' May God, the omnipotent, place the slaves of the Court
under the heavenly shadow of your royal Majesty ! and may
he mercifully make their feet firm in pursuing the path of recti-
tude and justice, and in acquiring the knowledge of truth ! May
he preserve Your Majesty as the protector and nourisher of the
helpless, the bestower of mercy, the pardoner of errors, through-
out the world and all worlds, and bless you with thousands upon
thousands of sources of wealth, abundance, grandeur and felicity,
upon earth and in heaven ! I implore all this for the sake of the
pure spirits who surround the throne of grace, and the saints
upon earth who join in the matutinal chorus of prayer. Amen,
Amen, Amen."
Should any one, upon perusing this, observe, that Shaikh
Faizi's regard and affection for me, which is evidenced by this
letter, is but ill requited by the harshness and severity with
which I have spoken of kim, especially after his death, when the
precept of ^^ speak not ill of the dead '' should be strictly observed,
I have only to reply, that the observation is perfectly just, but
under the circumstances, I inquire, what could I do P seeing that
the truth of religion and the maintenance of one's faith are
paramount to all other obligations, and that the maxim I never
deviate from is, that my love and hatred should be subservient
to God'^s cause. Although I was Shaikh Faizi's companion for
forty years, nevertheless, after he apostatized from his religion,
changed his manners, and entered on vain controversies, I became
gradually estranged firom him, and, especially after what occurred
at his death, I hold myself no longer his friend. When we aiti
all summoned before the throne of God, we shall receive sentence
according to our deserts I
Shaikh Faizi left a Library of 4600 volumes, some of them
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TARrXH-I BADAlTNr. 649
exquisitely copied with, what may be said to be, even unnecessary
care and expense. Most of them were autographs of the respec-
tive authors, or at least copied by their contemporaries. They
were all transferred to the King's Library, after being catalogued
and numbered in three different sections. The first included
Poetry, Medicine, Astrology, and Music; the second. Philosophy,
Sufyism, Astronomy, and Geometry; and the third or lowest
grade, included Commentaries, Traditions, Theology, and Law.
There were also 101 different copies of his poem, NaUDaman,
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550
APPEIfDIX.
[The following Notes are reprinted from the old Yolume of 1849,
with snoh additions and notes as were added to them hy Sir H.
Elliot in his private oopy.]
Note A.
On the capture of Nasibin by means of Scorpions.
The Nasibin,^ mentioned in the text (supra, p. 152), is the Nisibis
of dassical authors, the position of which, on the frontier of the
Persian and Boman Empires, made its oooupation of so much im-
portance in the estimation of the contending parties, from the time
that Lucullus plundered it, till its capture by the Arabs, when it
continued as frequent a source of contention between them and the
Greeks as between them and the Persians at a later period. It was
surrounded by a treble inclosure of brick walls defended by a deep
ditch, and was considered so impregnable that Asiatics, as will be
presently seen, are fond of resorting to supernatural means to
account for its capture. Sapor made three separate attacks upon
the town a.d. 338, 346, 350, and the disappointed monarch, after
urging his attacks above sixty, eighty, and a hundred days, was
repulsed each time with loss and ignominy;' but it was at last
ceded to him by Jovian ' in 363, and it remained henceforth with
^ Mannert says the town is called Nisibin, or Ninabin, bat neither mode of ortho-
graphy is consistent with Abti-1 Fid&. Vide Geoffr, d. Aboulf texte Arabe, p. 283.
-^ Gibbon, Decline and Fail, vol. iii. p. 139.
' In speaking of this humiliating treaty, Entropios gives us a good notion of the
political honesty of the Bomans, by censuring Jovian for not immediately breaking^
the treaty, and renewing the war, as the Bomans had done on all former oeeantme,
immediately he had escaped from the dangerous position which had compelled
him to oondude it — Mistor. Bom, Breviar., z. 17. The capitulation of Closter-
Seven, during the Seven Years' War, for a suspension of arms in the north of G«niianjy
Digitized by VjOOQIC
CAPTUBE OP NAsrarN. 551
the Persians (if we except two short intervals), as it had remained
for the two previous centuries with the Somans, a strong bulwark
against hostile encroachments.
On the third occasion of Sapor's attack, unusual means were
resorted to, to obtain possession of the place. At the stated season
of the melting of the snows in Armenia, the course of the river .
Mygdonius was, by the labour of the Persians, stopped below the
town, and the waters were confined on every side by solid mounds
of earth. On this artificial lake, a fleet of armed vessels, filled
with soldiera and heavy engines of war, was launched, and the
accumulated pressure of the waters made a portion of the walls
give way. Nevertheless, the monarch failed of success, and Nisibis
retained its character as an inexpugnable stronghold.'
Under one of his predecessors. Sapor I., the Shahpur of the
Persians, Mirkhond informs us that a miracle placed the town in
the hands of the Persian Monarch. Wearied with the siege, Shah-
pur commanded his army to unite in supplication to the Supreme
Being for its conquest, and while they were imploring the aid of
heaven, the wall fell down before them, and their faith and devotion
received a signal reward.^
Nisibis is now but a small and insignificant place, with scarcely
more than one hundred houses, but it is surrounded with ruins
which attest its former magnificence.'
The facts above related, with reference to the many obstinate
defences of Nasibin, show how natural it was that a credulous
Oriental writer should resort to the marvellous to account for such
and the conyention of El-Arish in 1800, for the evacuation of Egypt by the French
armies, have called forth the opinion of modem jurists on the general question.
SeeVattel, pp. 219, 231, 236; Wheaton's BUmmtt of International Law, vol. ii.
pp. 120-122; Flassan^s Histoire de la Diplomatie Franfaite, torn. vi. pp. 97-107 ;
and MM. de Koch and Schoell*s Histoire abr4gi dee Traitie de Faix^ torn. iii. pp.
48,50; V. 304, Sll.
^ Gibbon, Decline and Fall, vol. iii. p. 141.
' Malcolm, Hietory of Persia, vol. i. p. 77. After being taken by the Arabs, it fell
to the arms of the Seljdks, Turkomans, Tartars, and Mughals. — Bampoldi, vol. iii.
p. 369 ; vol. vi. p. 617.
' Jahdn-numd, p. 438. Niebuhr, Voyages, vol. ii. pp. 300-309. Compare also
Mannert, Oeographie d. Greich, und Bom,, vol. v. ii. pp. 216-219. Bitter, Erdkunde
von Asien, vol. vii. i. pp. 128-136. VUnivers. Hit. Asie, iz. BabyhniSy 332.
Eney. Met, *< Mesopotamia."
Digitized by VjOOQIC
552 AFPBNDIX.
umisnal suooess as attended tbe arms of the Arabs in the seventeentfa
year of the HijrL
The passage against which the captions opponent of 'Abdn-1 Kadir
took exception runs thus in the Tdrikh-i Alfi, in the Annals of the
seventh year after the death of Mnhammad. Very few of the
Arabic historians notice the oircomstance recorded in it, nor do
Ockley, Gibbon, or Marigny mention it.^
" The army of Islam sat eight months before the fort of Nasibin.
Now, in and around that city, there were exceedingly large black
scorpions, and no man who was bitten by them escaped with his
life* The Arab General consequently gave orders that a thousand
small jars should be filled with these reptiles, indosed in looee
mould around them, and that they should be thrown at night into
the city by the engines. As the jars broke when they fell on the
ground, the scorpions crawled out, and killed every one whom they
stung. In the morning the garrison were so dispirited, and found
themselves reduced to such extremities, that they could no longer
hold the fort. The Musulmans, taking advantage of their consterna-
tion, made a sudden assault, broke open the gates, and slew several
who had escaped the venom of the scorpions. It is said that in the
time of Noshirwan, the fort of Nasibin was captured in predsely
the same way."
If we concur with the objector, and hesitate to receive this
narrative as true, we may perhaps be able to explain it in some
other more rational manner. In the first place, it may occur to us
as not altogether improbable, that this story owes its origin to the
use of the propelling machine called the "Scorpion," which we
learn from Yegetius * was so called, because it threw small javelins
with fine points which occasioned death. Others say because the
darts were poisoned.'
^ See Price, Setrospect, Yol. i. p. 93.
> J)e re militari, iv. 32.
' EBchenbiiTg, Manual, p. 544. See Smith's IHet, ▼. Tormentum. Sam. Pitiseitt,
Lexicon AntiquUatum ^omafwrumy in which the dasrieal references tre fhllf and
Basil Faber, Theaaurut Erudiiionit Sehokutiea, ▼. Scorpio. In Grose's Antiquitu$,
▼ol. i. p. 16, there is a diagram. Meyrick's Antimt Armour, yol. ii. p. 157, shovs
that a kind of cannon was also called a scorpion, called by the English a hand-cannon.
The annals of Flacentia for 1444 have " scorpione sen balistra.** The qnotations
given do not bear ont the fact of the scorpion being used solely for gnnpowder. It
Digitized by VjOOQIC
CAPTURB OF NASrBfN. 663
Later writers may have oopied the statement, and pat an interpre-
tation upon it suited to their own eomprehensions. It is to be
observed that the Soorpion was used; even in Europe, as late as
1428 A.D.^
There seems to be another way of aooounting for this improbable
story, if we reject the literal meaning of the words, by supposing
that a combustible composition, formed of some bituminous sub-
stances, was used upon the occasion. We know from several
excellent authorities, that for many years before the invention of
gunpowder, such substances were used in warfare, and, what is still
more remarkable, that the cases in which they were enveloped were
known by the name o£ Seorpiana. Gasiri' gives us the following
extract from an Egyptian G^grapher, called Shahabu-d din,' who
flourished about a.d. 1250. ''Bodies, in the form of Scorpiim»,
bound round, and filled with nitrous powder, glide along, making a
gentle noise, then they explode, and throw out flames.^ But there
are others which, oast into the air, stretch along like a doud, roaring
horribly as thxmder roars, and on all sides vomiting out flames, they
burst, and bum, and reduce to cinders whatever comes in their
way."' It is c^so a veiy curious coincidence, that the ancient Indian
weapon, or rocket, called sataghni, with the etymological meaning of
the hundred-slayer, should also signify a Scorpion.^
As there will be occasion again to allude to the early use of gun-
powder in the East, there is no need to dwell upon this passage
from the Egyptian author with any reference to that subject. It is
merely adduced here, to show the undoubted use at an early period
of a combustible called a Scorpion,
Now, it is remarkable that Dion Cassius, in speaking of the
expedition of Alexander Severus against Atra, which was «close to
may have been the old scorpio. In the Gloswry he contradiete himself by saying
scorpion is a ** poisoned arrow '' ; but under seorpionarinB, it is shown that it was a
hand-weapon, as it is used by one man only.
^ Huratori, Script ItaL, torn. zxi. 216. * BibliotK Arab, Hisp, toI. ii. p. 7.
' Berington giyes bis name as Ebn Fadhl, but that only shows his parentage. —
Literary Mistory of the Middle Agee, p. 438. [See Vol. III. euprd^ p. 673.]
^ The early Crusaders used to describe the Greek fire as hissing through the air
like serpents.
' Different translations are giyen. — Siat. de I* Art, p. 67.
* See Wilson's Sanscrit Dictionary, s.t. and Halhed's Oode of Gentoo Zawe, p. ui.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
554 APPENDIX.
Nifiibis, says that, in the last extremity, the Atreni defended them-
selves by throwing naphtha^ both upon the besiegers and upon
their engines, by which they were burnt and destroyed. Acoording
to Price, naphtha was discharged in pots at Khwarizm.*
Three hundred years before this, the same author tells us, that when
Luoullus was besieging Tigranocerta, not fifty miles ' from Nisibis,
'* the barbarians " defended themselves by throwing naphtha balls
against the engines. ^'This substance is bituminous, and so in-
flammable that it bums to ashes everything on which it impinges,
nor is it easily extinguished by anything wet" *
Nor can we wonder that these noxious implements ''fed with
naphtha and asphaltus" should have been so frequently and so
early used in Mesopotamia; for from the Persian Gulf to the
Euxine, from the Dead Sea, where asphaltum floats on the water,
to Baku on the Caspian,* where naphtha streams spontaneously
through the surface of the soil, and where a boiling lake emits
constant flames, the whole country is impregnated with bituminous
matter, which is especially abundant on the banks of the Tigris and
Euphrates' — so that if the Scorpions alluded to by 'Abdu-1 Eadir
' rh vd4>ea rh iunpdKrSBts (Dionis Hist. Bom, Ixxt. 11), «of which," he adds,
" I ha?e already written " — alluding probably to the passage mentioned in the next
paragraph of the text.
* Price, Eelrospeei, Tol. ii. p. 616.
' Tacitus says thirty-seyen miles. — AntuU, xr. 4.
^ Dionis, Fragmenta 178, ex Xiphilino. The same author, in his Ufe of Caligula,
tells us of that Emperor's having a machine, which projected a stone, accompanied
with thunderings and lightnings.
^ *'Near unto Bachu is a very strange and wonderful fountain underground, out of
which there springeth and issueth a marvellous quantity of black oyL" — John Cart-
wrighfs Fteacher*» Travels in Churchill, vol. vii. p. 731. See also Geffrey Dochet
in Hakluyt, vol. i. p. 450. ** This oyle is blacke, and is called Nefte." Properly
Bagh cuh, the mountain garden, according to P. de Yalle, Letteriv. in Pinkerton,
vol. ix. p. 46. Naphtha was sent as a present from Baghdad, anno 686. — Mo4.
Uhiver. SisL, vol. iii. p. 206 ; Weil, vol. iii. p. 413.
* Rich, Fundgntbm des Orients^ vol. iii p. 161. See also respecting the immortal
fire in Lycia, Plin. Nat, Hist., ii. 106. Salmasius, Exerciidai, Flmian, pp.
244, 246; Beckmann's notes to the treatise De Mirabilibm AusetUUiionihsu^
attributed to Aristotle (quoted sometimes as Pseudo-Arist.), p. 288 ; Harsdm's
Marco Polo^ p. 52 ; Fraser's Mesop, and Assyria, p. 847 ; Jahdn-numd, vol. i. p. 566,
ii. p. 16 ; J. A. St. John's Ane, Greece^ vol. iii. pp. 403-6 ; Hakluyt's Voyages, Nan'"
yations, etc., vol. ii. p. 682 ; Smith's Diet, Geoy,, p. 863 ; Dmmmond*s Oriyistes,
voL i. p. 166.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
CAPTXIBE OP NAsrBrN. 665
were combustible, there would be no great improbability in the
narratiye.
But if we reject these solutions as too elaborate and remote, we
must fall back upon the literal interpretation, and, improbable as it
is, tibere are many reasons to encourage us to maintain that it is
strictly true.
In the first place, the application of living scorpions to such an
improbable purpose w;ould not be altogether a novel stratagem.
The Tdrihh'i Tamini tells us, that Ehalaf defended himself in the
fort of Ark ^ by throwing from his catapults wallets of snakes upon
the besieging army.
M. de Sacy,' in abstracting the passage from the translation of
Jarbadkh&ni, says, " lis langoieat sur les troupes de Hossain des
cruches remplies de scorpions et de reptiles venimeux." For this
I can find no authority in the original; but Bashidu-d din also
says in his JdmCu-t TatodrOch, that scorpions, as well as snakes,
were used upon the occasion. At folio 8 of his History of Sultan
Mahmud we read : ** When Khalaf had borne down the ' riders of
crocodiles ' (nihang-sawar) and the footmen, he continued to harass
the besiegers with crafty arts and stratagems. AVherever they
established themselves, he, with slings and catapults, cast upon
them pots full of snakes and scorpions, and their places of security
he converted into places of ambush." '
Ab^-1 Fida, Mirkhond, and the TdbaJcdt-i Ndsiri have nothing on
the subject.
Cornelius Nepos and Justin inform us, that by means precisely
similar Hannibal dispersed the superior fleet of Eumenes :
" Lnperavit (Hannibal) quam plurimas venenatas serpentes vivas
coUigi, easque in vasa fictilia conjicL Harum cum confecisset mag-
nam multitudinem, die ipso, quo facturus erat navale prselium,
classiarios convocat, bisque prsacipit, omnes ut in unam Eumenis
regis concurrant navem, a ceeteris tantum satis habeant se defen-
dere ; id facile iUos serpentium multitudine consecuturos." ^
^ [The ari is the citadal or chief fort.]
' Notices et JBxtraittf torn. iv. p. 338. ^ ^az mdman % eshdn makman mi-edkht."
^ Cornelius Nepos, Sannibalt 10. See also Justin, Hist, Fhilipp., xxxii. 4.
Serpentines came afterwards to be the name of a kind of cannon. **In a letter from
the Master of the Knights Hospitallers at Jerusalem to the Pope on the siege of
Digitized by VjOOQIC __
566 APPENDIX.
Then again we find the Atreni, notioed above, making nae of iiiia
very mode of defence against the troops of the Boman Emperor.
Herodian says ^ (and Gibbon ' has declared his acoomzt of this reign
to be rational and moderate, and oonsistent with lihe general histofy
of the age), ''They oast upon them large birds and poisonous
animals' which fluttered before their eyes, and penetrated every
part of tiiieir bodies that was exposed," • • • " so that more
perished by these means than by direct attaoics of the enemy.** *
Frontinns also speaks of this mode of warfare in his book <^
stratagems ; ' and we read of something like it being practised by
the Soanes, a people of Colchis, near Caacasos, who endeavonred to
suffocate, with poisonous exhalations, those enemies, with whom
they could not contend in close combat ; * this was done at Nioe in
the first Crusade, and again at Antioch.^ At the sieges of Jotc^ta
Bhodes by the Turks in 1480, we find oolabrink et Borpentkiis detnrbant fetignntqiie.
Colnbrina, a culyerine, is deriyed from coluber, like as the serpentine from serpentinns.
This latter was made of copper, as in a deed, dated 1461, mention is made of a
serpentine de cuiyre."— Meyrick, vol. ii. p. 207. These names most haye been
deriyed fttim the form of the month, id. 288, as with the^basilisk, the flying dragon.
See quotations from Bymer, in "Artillery," Fenny Cyclop, ; Ellis's Metrieai BomoMcm
(Bohn), pp. 229, 307, 328, 310. There u an important passage about ducentos serpen-
tes in Sifi. de PArtOl,, p. 65 ; Bohn's Chnm. of ths Crmodetf pp. 196-7. See also
extract copied at p. 2 of Gloss. MS. Meyrick, Antient Armow^ yoL i. p. 71* tFanalates
this, 200 combustible serpents, etc. Bahadin, p. 166.
^ This passage and the one g^yen from Dion Gassius refer to the same expedition.
We need not stay to inquire whether the difference of the accounts arises from
omission or contradiction.
> See Decline and Fall, yoL 1. p. 267.
> The l6fioXmy ^pldv refers most probably to scorpions, and though it must be
confessed the use of U$o\&w is ambiguous, yet, when coupled with Oifptdr, the
poisonous nature of the missile is eyident.
* Herodiani, Sietor, Boman^ lib. iii. c. 9. A curious use of mangonels in throwing
gold is recorded by Wass6f on 'Al&n-d din, and alluded to by MSr Ehosrn in
XhmUnu-l Fktiih. [See euprd. Vol. III. pp. 41, 168.] The infidels hurled on the
Crusaders at Maarah << lapides, ignem, et plena apibus alyearia caloem quoque yiyam,
quanta poterant jaculabantur instantift, ut eas Ik muro propeUerenl** — WtU, 1^,, Irn,
c. 9 ; Mod, Univ. Siet., yol. iii. p. 247 ; Southey's Common^lmee Bookj 4th seiies, p. 26 ;
Mackay*s Fcp. D^ueione, yol. ii. p. 27 ; Ane, Univ. Siei,, yoL iy. p. 4. For throwing
of carcases, see Froissart, yol. i. c. 60, c. 107. There are also instances of men and
horses in Froissart. Camden says dead horses were thrown by the Turks at Negroponte.
— Grose, Antiquitiety yoL i. p. 17.
B Sex. Jul. Frontini, Stratagematic^ lib. iy. c. 7; Bncff. 2fei. Hist Bom. Bep., p. 422.
• Strabo, Geograph, lib. xi. c. 2 ; D'Herbelot, y. Acrab.
^ If iohaud, yol. L pp. 102-8^ and pp. 131, 140.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
KUSDAB. 657
and Jerusalem, dead bodies of men and horses were thrown by the
war-machines oa the besieged*^
MoreoYer, we know from unquestionable testimony, that scorpions
abound so much in the neighbourhood of Nasibin as to be the
object of special remark by Oriental Qeographers.
Istakhriy or the author translated by Ouseley, speaking of Eurdan,
close to Nasibin, says, '' It produces deadly scorpions ; and the hill
on which it stands abounds in serpents, whose stings occasion
death."' Abu-1 Fida, quoting Azizi, says, ''At Nasibin there is an
abundance of white roses, but a red rose is not to be seen. There
are also deadly scorpions.'" Edrisi also notices, in his geographical
work, the deadly scorpions of Nasibin.^
Taking, therefore, into consideration these concurrent testimonies
to the fact of venomous reptiles being sometimes used in warfare,
and to their abundance in the vicinity of Nasibin, we may pro-
nounce in favour of 'Abdu-l Eadir and his Arab authorities, and
declare him justified in exclaiming, '' that he had not been guilty
of any fabrication, that he had seen the anecdote in books, and had
written accordingly; and that, as the accuracy of his statement
has been fully verified, he is, by Gk)d's grace, relieved from the
charge of invention."
NOTK B.
On Ku9ddr.
A passage in the Tdrikh-i Alfi, which speaks of Eusdar being
" near the dominions of Nasiru-d din Subuktigin," ' would seem to
imply that Eusdar was a city of India, and it is so called by Abu-1
Fida and Eazwini. The compiler of the Tdr(kh-i Alfi copies the
whole of his narrative, with only a few verbal alterations, from the
Bauzatu-s Safd, but the first clause is an addition of his own, from
^ JosephoB, Bell, Jud, lib. iii. c. 7-9.
' Oiiseley's Oriental Oeography^ p. 56. [Mordtmann's rendering ia, " There are
many deadly scorpions there ; and the hill of Mardfn close by aboands in serpents
of the most deadly kind."— Dm Bueh der Lander, pp. 45, 47.]
* Q4ographU d$ Aboulfida, p. 283.
^ Reeueil d. Voy. ft d, Mdm,, torn. vi. p. 150. See Qnatrem^re's OhservatumSf Jtmm.
dee Sav„ Jan., 1851.
' [See the old toI. of 1849, p. 153. The passage hardly seems to wairaat the
in&renoe drawn from it]
Digitized by VjOOQIC
658 APPENDIX.
which it appears that Eusdar was by him thought to be the first
city conquered in India; bat as it was so remote from Jaipal's
possessions, it does not seem probable that its capture could have
inspired him with such fear for his own safety as the text represents,
nor is it proper at any period to place the borders of India so far to
the west^ The last instance of its being mentioned as a portion of
India is where, in the second part of the Tdfu-l Ma-dsir, it is said to
have been included in the dominion of Shamsu-d dm after his
capture of Bhakkar. The name of this town is so differently spelt
by different authors that it is not often easy to recognize it in its
various disguises. Its position is sufficiently indicated by the
Tdrihh'i Yamini,^ which, speaking of a period subsequent to that
noticed in the text^ tells us that when Mahmud thought it necessary
to chastise the Governor of Eusdar, because he would not pay his
tribute, he gave out that he was going on an expedition to Hirat,
and had marched as far as Bust on that route, in order to disguise
his intention, when he suddenly turned off towards Eusdar, and
came so unexpectedly upon it, that the rebellious Governor came
out and supplicated for pardon, and was reinstated after paying a
considerable fine, as a penalty for his disobedience.
Eusdar lies to the south of Bust, and is the present Ehusidar of
our maps, the capital of Jhalawan in Bil6ohistan.' It is spelt both
j^Jjii and j^Juoi, according to Abu-1 Fida, but both he and Sadik
Isfahani prefer the former. The latter, however, is the most usual
mode of spelling it.
Yon Hammer ^ says that Wilken is correct in writing it Easdar,
but this is by no means authorized by either of the two Geographers
mentioned above. Sadik Isfahan!^ spells it Eisdar, and Abu-1
Fida ' Eusdar, and to his authority we must defer, as he is so very
^ The Bahru-l BtUddn places K&bol ia India. See also Reinaad's Mtmwrt^
pp. 12, 89, 176.
> See also Tdrikh-i Yomlni, Ilth. Ed. p. 316.
' Masson, Balochistan^ Afghanittan^ and Fatyah, vol. iL p. 41. There is a Kooshder
in Bumeb's map, between Kelat and Dadur, which maj perhaps be the place. The
alteration of the first letter is suspicions.
« OemaJdesaal der I^bembeschreibungen, toL iv. p. 106.
0 Takwitnu-l Btdddn, p. 122.
• Gdographie de Aboulfdda, Texte Arabe, pp. 348, 349. At page 384 Mekran is
said to be in Hind.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
FIRE-WORSHIP IN XTPPBR INDIA. 669
careful in speoifying the vowel-points. Briggs oalls it in one place
Kandahar, in another Khoozdar.^ The Nubian Geographer callB it
Kardan Fardan,' and Eazwinf Easran Kasran.' M. Petis de la
Croix calls it Oustar, and M. Silvestre de Saoy Cosdar.^
When Ibn Haukal visited the valley of Sind, he found Eusdar
under a separate government, and during the whole period of Arab
occupation it was considered a place of importance. He describes
it as a city and district between Turan and Sind. Eusdar is fre-
quently mentioned by Biladuri.^ He quotes an Arabic poet, who
thus rapturously speaks of its merits.
"Almonder has descended into his tomb at Eusdar, deprived of
all commerce with people endowed with reason.
''What a beautiful country is Eusdar! how distinguished its
inhabitants 1 and how illustrious both for his worldly policy as well
as his religious duties was the man who now lies buried in its
80ill"«
Note C.
On Fire-worship in Upper India,
Nizamu-d din Ahmad mentions no other event of Ibrahim's reign
but the following: ''The Sultan turned his face towards Hindu-
stan, and conquered many towna and forts, and amongst them was
a city exceedingly populous, inhabited by a tribe of Ehurasani
descent, whom Afrasiyab had expelled from their native country. ^ •
It was so completely reduced by the power and perseverance of the
Sultan, that he took away no less than 100,000 captives." Abu-1 Fida
and the TabaJcdt-i Ndsiri are silent. The Tdrikh-i Alfi says, "Ibrahim
next marched against Derapur in Hindustan, a place which many
great emperors found it impracticable to conquer. Several histories
state that this place was inhabited by the descendants of the people
of Ehurasan, who for their disloyal and rebellious conduct had been
1 Briggs' FirUhtOj toL i. pp. 15, 123. * Geographia Nubientit, pp. 64, 67, 68.
' Gfldemeister, De rehus Indieitt p. 174.
* Notices et Eztr. dee MSS., torn. iy. pp. 332, 391.
» [See *«jwd, Vol. I. p. 118.]
' Reinand, Fragments Arabee et Fersana, p. 188. Compare also Pottinger, jyaveU
in Beloehistanf p. 36. 0. Bitter, Frdk, von Asien, toI. yi. part i. pp. 714, 715.
Gildemeiflter, De rebut Indicia^ pp. 25, 209. Wien Jahrbueher^ no. IxxiiL p. 31.
Hirchondi, Hiatoria Oaanevidarum, p. 146. Hassan's Kelat^ p. 377.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
560 APPBNDIX.
long before banished die country by Afrasiyaby Emperor of Tnran."
The MuniaJchahu't Tawdr(kh has nothing more on the subject than is
contained in the Tahakdt-i Akbari. The BauzcUu-8 Safd is the same
as the Tdrikk'i Alfi, except that the former omits the name of the
place. Firishta adds a few particulars not to be found in the others.
He says : — '< The King marched from thence to another town in the
neighbourhood, called Der^, the inhabitants of which came originally
from ELhur^an, and were banished thither with their families by
Afrasiyaby for frequent rebellions. Here they had formed themselTes
into a small independent state, and, being cut off from intercourse
with their neighbours by a belt of mountains nearly impassable, had
preserved their ancient customs and rites by not intermarrying with
any other people. The King, having with infinite labour cleared a
road for his army over the mountains, advanced towards Dera, which
was well fortified. This place was remarkable for a fine lake of water
about one paraaang and a half in circumference, the waters of which
did not apparently diminish, either from the heat of the weather or
from being used by the army. At this place the King was overtaken
by the rainy season ; and his army, though greatly distressed, was
compelled to remain before it for three months. But as soon as the
rains abated, he summoned the town to surrender and acknowledge
the faith. Sultan Ibr^im's proposal being rejected, he renewed the
siege, which continued some weeks, with great slaughter on both sides.
The town, at length, was taken by assault, and the Muhammadans
found in it much wealth, and 100,000 persons, whom they carried
in bonds to Ghazni. Some time after, the King accidentally saw one
of those unhappy men carrying a heavy stone, with great difficulty
and labour, to a palace which he was then building. This exciting
his pity, he commanded the prisoner to throw it down and leave it
there, at the same time giving him his liberty. This stone happened
to be on the public road, and proved troublesome to passengers, but
as the King's rigid enforcement of his commands was universaDy
known, no one attempted to touch it A courtier one day having
stumbled with his horse over the stone, took occasion to mention it
to the King, intimating that he thought it would be advisable to
have it removed. To which the King replied, ' I commanded it to
be thrown down and left there ; and there it must remain as a menu-
Digitized by VjOOQIC
FIBE-WOESHIP IN UPPEB INDIA. 661
me&t of the oalamities of war, and to oommemorate my senBe of its
evils. It is better for a king to be pertinaoioas in the support even
of an inadvertent oommand than that he shoold depart fh>ni his
royal word.' The stone aooordingly remained where it was; and
was shown as a curiosity in the reign of Sult^ Bair&m several
years afterwards."
The position of this place is very difficult to fix. Firishta says
that in the year 472 h. Ibr4him marched in person to India, and
conquered portions of it never before visited by the Musulmans.
He extended his conquests to Ajodhan, now called Pattan Shaikh
Farid Shakr Ganj. He then went to Budpal, situated on the summit
of a steep hill, which a river embraced on three sides, and which
was protected by an impervious wood, infested by serpents. He
then marched to Der&, which Briggs seems to place in the valley of
the Indus, because he adds in a note, '* Dera seems a common name
in the vicinity of Multan for a town." The reading of the Tdrikh-i
Alfi with respect to the two first places is much the most probable,
— ^namely, a fort in the country of JM^ and DamaL
The Rauzaifi'S Safd does not mention the first place, and speaks
of the second as if it were on the sea-shore. The third place he does
not name. In Firishta it is Deri, and in the Tdrikh-i Alfi Derapur.
This would seem to be the place called Derabend, near Torbela, on
the Upper Indus.' It is possible that the Dehra of Dehra Dun may
be meant; but, though the belt of mountains, the inaccessible
jungle, the seclusion of the inhabitants, and the identity of name,
are in favour of this supposition, we are at a loss for the inex-
haustible lake and the impregnability of the position.
All the authors, however, who mention the circumstance, whether
they give the name or not, notice that the inhabitants were banished
^ This coantry is frequently mentioned by the early historians. It lies between
the Indns and the Jailam, and is the Ayud of the old trayellers. It ia the old
Sanskrit name, and occnn in the Pnranic lists, and on the Allahabad pillar, under
the name of Yaudheya, Wilford says it is the Had of the Book of Esther. It
occors also in the marginal legend of the reverse of the Bactro-Pehlevi Coins. See
Jowm, Ai, Soe. Bengal^ toI. tl p. 973 ; Am, Seuarchet, Tol. viiL p 349 ; Lassen,
ZriUehrifif, d, K, d, Morgerdandet, yoi. iii. p. 196.
> Yigne, Kashmir^ yoL L p. 122. See also Abbot*s paper on Kikaia, Joum, As,
Soc. Bengaly 1852.
VOL, v. 36
Digitized by VjOOQIC
562 APPENDIX.
by Afraoiyab ; and this concurrent tradition respecting their expulsion
from Khurasan seems to indicate the existence of a colony of fire-
worshippers in these hills, who preserved their peculiar rites and
customs, notwithstanding the time which had elapsed since their
departure from their native country.
Putting aside the probability, which has frequently been specu-
lated upon, of an original connexion between the Hindu religion
and the worship of fire,' and the derivation of the name of Magadha
from the Magi, there is much in the practical worship of the
Hindus, such as the ^m, the gdyatH, the address to the sun ' at the
time of ablution, the prohibition against insulting that luminary by
indecent gestures, ' — ^all which would lead an inattentive observer
to conclude the two religions to bear a very close resemblance to
one another. It is this consideration which should make us veiy
careful in receiving the statements of the early Muhammadan writers
on this subject; and the use of the word Oahr, to signify not
only, especially, a fire-worshipper, but, generally, an infidel of any
denomination, adds to the probability of confasion and inaccuracy/
Khusru, in the KhazdinU'l Futuh (p. 76), calls the sun the kibla of
the Hindus, and it is quite evident that throughout his works Oahr
is used as equivalent to Hindu. In one passage he speaks of the
Gabrs as worshippers both of stones and fire.
European scholars have not been sufficiently attentive to this
double use of the word, and all those who have relied upon M. Petis
1 Calc, Rev. vol. xxi. pp. 107, 128; M<id, Trav., India, toI. i. p. 120; Rampoldi,
viii. n. 39 ; Mickle*8 Camoens, p. 356 ; Dr. Cox's Sacred Hist, and Biog,, p. 120 ;
R. P. Knight's Symbolic Language, « Fire."
» See Wilson, Rig- Veda, Pref. pp. 28, 29, and Index, voce " Agni " ; Elphinstone's
India, vol. i. p. 78 ; also Lucian*s description of th^ circular dance peculiar to Indima
priests, in which they worship the sun, standing with their faces towards the east.
— De Saltatione. See also Bohlen, Dae alte Indien, vol. i. pp. 137, 146 ; Ersch and
Griiber, Eneyclopiidie der Wiseeneehafien und Kuntte, art. Indien, pp. 166, 172 ;
Drummond's On'ginet, vol. iii. p. 430.
3 Hesiod enables us to disguise it in a.leamed language,
M178* iurr* iieXioio r€rpafXfJi4vos h^hs hfiix^of.
Op, et Di, v. 672.
See also Menu, iv. 52 ; Rdmdyana, ii. 59 ; Bohlen, Dae alie Ind., voL i. p. 139 ;
Akhldk'i Jaldli, p. 293.
^ *' A Christian is called amongst them Gower, that is, unbeleever and uncleane,
esteeming all to be infidels and pagans which do not believe as they do, in their
false, filthie prophets, Mahomet and Murtezalli." — A. Jenkins, Hakluyt, vol. i. p. 391.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
FIRE- WORSHIP IN UPPER INDIA. 563
de la Croix's translation of Sharafa-d din, have oonsidered that, at
the period of Timur's in^vasion, fire-worship prevailed most exten-
sively itt Upper India, heoause Oahr is used throughout hy the
historians of that invasion, to represent the holders of a creed
opposed to his own, and against which his rancour and cruelty
were unsparingly directed. There is distinct mention in the MaUd't^a
Sa*dain of fire- worshippers, as distinct from the Hindus ; and the
Kashmirians, according to Firishta, were fire- worshippers at the time
of the Muhammadan invasion.^ The men of Deogfr are called fire-
worshippers in the Tdtikh-i *Aldi.
But though the word is used indiscriminately, there are certain
passages in which it is impossible to consider that any other class
but fire- worshippers is meant Thus, it is distinctly stated in Timur's
Memoirs, and by Sharafu-d din, that the people of Tughlikpur '
believed in the two principles of good and evil in the universe, and
acknowledged Ahrimdn and Yezdan (^Ormuzd). The captives mas-
sacred at Loni ^ are said to have been Magians, as well as Hindis,
and Sharafu-d din states that the son of Safi the Oabr threw
himself into the fire, which he worshipped.^
We cannot refuse our assent to this distinct evidence of the
existence of fire- worshippers in Upper India as late as the invasion
of Timur, a.d. 1398-9. There is, therefore, no improbability that
the independent tribe which had been expelled by Afrasiyab, and
practised their own peculiar rites, and whom Ibrahim the Ghazni-
vide attacked in a.d. 1079, were a colony of fire- worshippers from
Iran, who, if the date assigned be true, must have left their native
country before the reforms effected in the national creed by Zoroaster.
Indeed, when we consider the constant intercourse which had
prevailed from the oldest time between Persia and India,' it is
^ Briggs, Tol. iv. p. 449.
2 [See suprd, Vol. II r. pp. 431 and 494, and see the Editor's note upon this
passage at page 606 of Vol. III. A further instance of the confusion of Br&hmanical
and ZoToastrian institutions may be found at p. 530, suprd^ where Bad&(ini, in
treating upon P&rsi fire-worship, declares the Hindd horn to be ''a ceremony derived
from fire-worship," evidently meaning Zoroastrianism.]
3 [See iuprd, Vol. III. pp. 436 and 497.] Price's Chr<moU>gieal Beirotp. of Mah.
Ifisi.t vol. iii. p. 254.
* [See vol. III. p. 506.]
* Troyer, Bdjd Tarangini, vol. ii, p. 441.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
564 APPENDIX.
flarpming that we do not find more unquestionable instanoes of tlie
peraeouted fire-wonhippers seeking an asylom in Northern India as
well as in Gnjar&t The instanoes in which they are alluded to
before this iuTaaion of Tfmur are very .rare, and almost always so
obscurely mentioned as to leave some doubt in the mind whether
foreign ignorance of native customs and religious rites may not
have given a oolour to the narrative.
The evidence of the Ohinese traveller, Hiuen-thsang, to the
existence of sun-worship at Multan in 640 aju., is very decisivB.
He found there a '' temple of the sun, and an idol erected to repre-
sent that grand luminary," with dwellingB for tiie priests, and
reservoirs for ablution ; ^ yet he says the city was inhabited chiefly
by men of the Brahmanictd religion. A few oenturies before, if
Philostratns is to be believed, Apollonius, after crossing the Indus,
visited the temple of the sun at Taxila, and Phraotes, the chief of
the country, describes the Indians as in a moment of joy " snatching
torches from the altar of the sun," and mentions that he himself
never drank wine except ''when sacrificing to the sun." After
crossuig the Hyphasis, Apollonius goes to a place, which would
seem to represent Jw41a Mukhi, where they ''worship fire" and
" sing hynms in honour of the sun." ' When the Arabs arrived in
the valley of the Indus, they found the same temple, the same idol,
the same dwellings, the same reservoirs, as had strudc the Chinese,
but their description of the idol would lead us to suppose that it was
a representation of Budh« B£r6ni, however, whose testimony is
more valuable than that of aU other Muhammadans^ as he was fully
acquainted with the religious system of the Hindtis, plainly tells us '
that the idol of Mult&n was called Adiiya,^ because it was conse-
crated to the suAf and that Muhammad bin E&sim, the first invader,
suspended a piece of cow's flesh from its neck, in order to show his
^ Jourtua A9iatiqu4, 4th seriei, torn. TiiL p. 298, and Ibt Zbtie JTi,^ 393.
> Philostrati' Vita ApoUonii, lib. ii. capp. 24, 32, lib. iii. cap. 14, ed. Q. OleariiK
(Leip. 1709), pp. 77, 85, 108 ; Sitt, Sikht (Calc 1848), p. 20.
' M Reinaud, Fragments Arahes et Fnrtans^ p. 141.
* See LaMexij Inditehe Alterthmukunde^ toI. i. p. 761 ; AiUkohffia SmucriHemt
p. 172 ; Aa. Bea., ToL i. p. 263 ', Tans Kennedy, AncimU mtd Smdu JfjrlAtf/ityjf,
p. 849.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
FIRE-WOESHEP IN UPPER INDIA. 665
contempt of the superstition of the Indians, and to dia^st them
with thia doable insnlt to the deareat objects of their veneration.^
Shortly before Bir4ni wrote, we have another instance of this
tendency to combine the two worships. In the message which
Jaip41 sent to Nasim-d din, in order to dissuade him &om driving
the Indians to desperation, he is represented to say, according to the
Tdrdch'i Alfir '* The Indians ore accostomed to pile their property,
wealth, and precious jewels in one heap, and to kindle it with the
fire, which iheif warship. Then they kill their women and diildren,
and with nothing left in the world they rush to their last onslaught,
and die in the field of battle, so that for their yictorious enemies the
only spoil is dust and ashes." The declaration is a curious one in
the mouth of a Hindu, but may perhaps be ccxiddered to indicate
the existence of a modified form of j^rolatry in the beginning of
the eleventh century. The practice aUuded to is nothing more than
the Jaithar, which is so frequently practised by Hind^ in despair,
and was not unknown to the nations of antiquity. Sardana-
palus performed it, on the capture of Babylon. " He raised a large
pyre in his palace, threw upon it all his wealth in gold, silver, and
royal robes, and then placing his oowsubines and eunuchs on it, he,
they, and the entire palace were consumed in the flames." * The
Saguntines did the same, when their city was taken by Hannibal ; '
Juba also had prepared for a Jau^r,^ and Arrian gives us an account
of one performed by the Brdhmans, without noticing it as a practice
exclusively observed by that class.* T^ie peculiarity of the relation
consists in Jaipal's declaration that the Indians worshipped the fire,
not in the fact of their throwing their property and valuables into it.
The practice of self-cremation also appears to have been common at
^ There is nothing ia the yarious origins asoribed to the name of Hult&n which
giTes any colour to the sappoeition that the city was devoted to the worship of the
sun ; nor is there anything at present to indicate that worship. See Lassen, Inditeh*
AUerthumskmuU, toI. i. p. 99 ; ZeUichnftf. d, K. d. Morg.^ vol. iii. p. 196 ; ToH,
Tol. i. pp. 69, 119 ; Reinand's Minu^ pp. 98, 100. The uniTersality of Snn-worship
is shown in Squier's Serpent Symbol in Ameriea, and Maorob. Saturn, i. c. 22.
' IHodoros Sicolns, iL 27. ' Polybius, iii. 17; JAry, xzi. 14.
« Meriyale, toI. iL p. 878 ; Cox's Soared Hiet, and Biop., p. 242,
» De ExpedU, AUx^ yi. 7. See also Eney. Metr., " Rom Rep." and •« Greece " ;
Herod, on the Syrians ; Q. Curtins, ix. 14 ; Niebuhr*s Leotores, vol. iL pp. 82, 169, 247,
269 ; Michand's Orueadee, vol. L p. 429 ; Layard's Nineveh, voL ii. p. 218 ; Arnold,
voL iii. pp. 66, 429 ; Mod, Univ. Eiet., vol. iiL p. 196, xi. p. 63.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
566* APPENDIX.
an earlier period ; and there were conspicuous instances of it when
foreign nations first became acquainted with India. One occurs
in Vol. n. p. 27, where this very Jaipal, having no opportunity of
dying in the field of battle, committed himself to the flames. Other
histories tell us that it was then a custom amongst the Hindus that
a king who had been twice defeated was disquaUfied to reign, and
that Jaipal, in compliance with this custom, resigned his crown to
his son, lighted his funeral pyre with his own hands, and perished
in the flames. The Qreeks and Romans were struck with the
instances which they witnessed of the same practice. Calanus, who
followed the Macedonian army from Taxila, solemnly burnt himself
in their presence at Pasargadse, being old and tired of his life.^
Zarmanochegas, who accompanied the Indian ambassadors sent by
a chief, called Porus, to Augustus, burnt himself at Athens, and
directed the following inscription to be eng^ved on his sepulchral
monument: — ''Here lies Zarmanochegas, the Indian of Bargosa,
who deprived himself of life, according te a custom prevailing among
hi$ countrymen.*^*
Strabo correctly observes, on the authority of Megasthenes, that
suicide is not one of the dogmas of Indian philosophy ; indeed, it is
attended by many spiritual penalties:* and even penance which en-
dangers life is prohibited/ There is a kind of exoeption, however,
in favour of suicide by fire and water,' but then only when age, or in-
firmity, makes life grievous and burdensome. The former has of late
years gone quite out of fashion, but it is evident that in ancient times
there were many devotees ready to sacrifice themselves in that mode.
Quique scuib struxere pyras, Tiyique calentes
Consoenddre rogos. Proh ! quanta est gloria genii
Injecisse manum iatis, yitaque repletoe
Quod superest, donasse Diik
Pkaraaiia, iii. 240.
^ Diodonu Sic. xyii. 107; Valerius Max. I. yiii. ExUm, 10; Cicero, TWw.ii. 22;
Grier, 108, Index, 7. <* Calanus" ; Elpbinstone's India, vol. i. i^, 90, 461, 462, 471.
' Suetonius, Auguatus, 21 ; Strabo, Oeograph, xv. 1 ; Yalentyn, toL i. p. 60 ;
Bitter, Erdk,, toL i7. part 1, p. 489.
3 Rhode, MeligwM Bildung der Hindus^ yol. i. p. 451 ; Boblen, Da$ aUe ImU$m,
Tol. i. pp. 286-290 ; C. Miiller, Frag, Hist. Grae, p. 139 ; his Scrip, rtrum AL mag,
pp. 61, 67.
« See Wilson's note to Mill's Britith India, yol. ii. p. 417.
^ Colebrooke, Asiatic Setearehe», toL vii. p. 266 ; where an instance is adduced
from the Raghuvanta and Sdmdgana,
Digitized by VjOOQIC
FIRE-WOBSHIP IN UPPEE INDIA. 567
It was, therefore, a habit sufficiently common amongat the Indians
of that early period, to make Lucan remark upon it as a peculiar
glory of that nation. All this, however, may have occurred with-
out any reference to fire as an object of worship; but the speech
of Jaipal, if not attributed to him merely through Muhammadan
ignorance, shows an unquestionable devotion to that worship.
But to continue, Istakhri, writing a century earlier than this
transaction, says, '* Some parts of Hind and Sind belong to Gahrs,
but a greater portion to Kafirs and idolaters ; a minute description
of these places would, therefore, be unnecessary and unprofitable." ^
Here, evidently, the fire-worshippers are alluded to as a distinct
dass; and these statements, written at different periods respecting
the religious creeds of the Indians, seem calculated to impart a
further degree of credibility to the specific assertions of Sharafu-d
din, ELhondamir, and the other historians of Timur's expedition to
India. But the people alluded to by them need not have been
colonies of refugees, fleeing from Muhammadan bigotry and per-
secution. There are other modes of accounting for their existence
in these parts. They may have been Indian converts to the
doctrine of Zoroaster, for we read that not only had he secret
communication with the Brahmans of India,^ but when his religion
was fully established, he endeavoured to gain proselytes in India,
and succeeded in converting a learned Brahman, called Tchengri-
ghatohah by Anquetil du Perron,* who returned to his native country
with a great number of priests. Firdusi tells us that Isfandiyar^
^ Ouseley'B (h'iental Geography^ p. 146.
' fiactrianus Zoroasties, cum saperioris India aecreta fidentios penetraret, ad
nemorosam quamdam venerat solitudineni, cnjua tranqoillis silentiifl prsecelsa Brach-
xnanoram ingenia potiuntor : eoramque moaita rationes miindani motUB et siderum,
porosque sacroram litus, quantum colligere potuit, eruditns, ex his, ques didicit,
aliqua sensibua Magonim infiidit. — Ammian. Marceil. Jtilianus, xziii. 6, 33. See
Ane, TTniv. Hist., yol. i?. p. 301 ; Guigniant's 2fote8 to Creuser*$ Religicm, torn. i.
pp. 689, 690.
' Zenda^esta, vol. i. oh. 2, p. 70.
i He is said, according to the Zlnatu-t Tawdrikh, to have been the first conyert
made by Zoroaster, and Gusht^sp, his father, was persuaded hj the eloquence of the
prince to follow his example. The king ordered twelve thousand cow-hides to be
tanned fine, in order that the precepts of his new faith might be engrossed upon
them. In this respect what a contrast is there to HindCi exclusiveness ! The Pandits
withheld their sacred books from Col. Polier, for fear that he should bind them in calf-
skin. Poller, Mythologie eka Indous, tom. iL p.,224 ; Ovid, Fastij i. 629 ; Eiley, p. 40.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
568 APPENDIX.
indaoed the monarbh of India to renotmoe idolatry and adopt fire-
worship, insomuch that not a Br4hman remained in the idol-temples.
A few oentnries afterwards, we hare indisputable testimony to the
general spread of these dootrines in E&bnl and the Panj&b. Hie
emblems of the Mithraio^ worship so predominate on ihe ooins of
the Kanerkis, as to leave no doabt npon the mind that it was ^
state-religion of that dynasty.'
Bitter entertains the supposition, that as the EhOji family oame
from ihe highlands whioh afforded a shelter to this persecuted race,
they may have had a leaning to these doctrines, and he offers a
suggestion, that the new religion which *A14a-d d(n wished to pro-
mnlgate may have been that of Zoroaster,' and that this will aooomt
for the Panjab and the Do&b being full of his votaries at the time
of Timur's invasion. But this is a very improbable supposition,
and he has laid too much stress upon the use of the word Gabr,
which, if taken in the exclusive sense adopted by him, would show
not only that these tracts were entirely occupied by fire- worshippers,
but that Hindfis were to be found in very few places in either of
them.
After this time, we find little notice of the prevalence of fire-
worship in Northern India; and its observers must then have
been exterminated, or they must have shortly after been absorbed
into some of the lower Hindu communities. Badiuni, however,
mentions the destruction of fire-altars one hundred years later by
Sultan Sikandar in a.h. 910. It may not be foreign to this part
of the inquiry to remark, that Abu-1 Fazl speaks of the Gnbree
language as being one of the thirteen used in the Ma of Kabul
{Ain-i Ahbari, vol. ii. p. 1263). The Gvbree language is also men>
tioned in Bdbar. There is a " Gubber " hill and pass not far from
Bunnoo, inhabited by the Battani tribe; and on the remotest
borders of Bohilkhand, just under the hills, there is a tribe called
^ Using ibis word in its nsnal, thongh not proper, acceptation. The real Mf thraic
worship was a fiuion of Zoroastrianism and Chaldaism, or the Syrian worship of
the snn. See the authorities quoted in Gniaof s and Mtlman's notes to Gibbon's
Decline and FaU^ rol. i. p. 340 ; Ane, Univ, lEUt,, vol. ir. pp. 160, 167.
* Lassen, Joum. As. 8oc, Bengal, toI. ix. p. 466, and H. T. Prinaep, NoU on tA#
Hietor, ResuUtfrotn Bactrian Cktina, p. 106.
' See Bitter, Brdktmde von Aneny vol. ir. part 1, pp. 677-79.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
PIEB-WORSHIP IN UPPER INDIA. 669
GMnri, who retain some peoaliar oiutoms, which seem to have no
connexion with Hind6 BupeTstition. They are said to have preceded
the present oooapants of the more onltiTated lands to the south of
the Tarai, and may possibly be the descendants of some of the
OdbrB who found a refuge in Upper India. The name of Oohri
would certainly seem to encourage the notion of identityi for the
difference of the first yowel, and the addition of a final one, offer
no obstacle, any more than they do in the name of OohryaSf^ who
gave information to Socrates on the subject of the Persian religion,
and is expressly declared by Plato to be an avifp fjAryo^. According
to J. Ounningham, there is a wild tribe called Magyas between
Halwa and Oujar&t, who are used as ahtkdrU. They are supposed
to have been fire- worshippers, but they have no pyrolatrous obser-
vances at present.
There is another inferior Hind€ tribe, to the west of the upper
Jumna, and in the neighbourhood of the Tughlikpur mentioned
above, who, having the name of Magh,^ and proclaiming themselves
of foreign extraction (inasmuch as they are descendants of Baja
Mukhtesar, a Sarsuti Brahman, King of Mecca, and maternal grand-
father of Muhammad 1 1),' would seem to invite the attention of any
^ Plato, Axioehut, Tanchnits, vol. yiii. p. 204. The same name is oommon in
Herodotoi, Xenophon, Justin, and other anthers, who deal in Persian History. The
warmth of an Irish imagination ascribes to the Greeks a ^.till g^reater perversion of
the original word.
** Hyde," says the enthusiastic O'Brien, '* was the only one who had any idea of
the composition of Gabiri, when he declared it was a Persian word somewhat altered
from Gkibri or Gnebri, and signifying fire-worshippers. It is true that Gabri now
stands for fire- worshippers, but that is only because they assumed to themseWes this
title, which belonged to another order of their ancestors. The word is deriyed from
gabhy a smith, and t>, sacred, meaning the sacred smiths, and Gabiri being only a
penrersion of it, is of course in snbetance of the yery same import. • • • • Gobhan
Saer means the sacred poet, or the Freemason Sage, one of the Gnebhres, or Gabiri."
—Rotmd Towertoflreiand, pp. 354, 886. See Joum, Boy. At, 8oc»^ vol. zL pp. 134-6.
' Jfoum, At. Soe, BrngtU, yol. yii. p. 754.
* See Qnatremdre*s observations in the Journal det Savantt, January, 1851.
This is not at all an uncommon paternity for the lower tribes to assume. There is
nothing in which HindtL ignorance is more betrayed, than in these silly attempts to
enrol the false prophet amongst their native heroes. See especially Wilfbrd's absurd
and dirty story, showing how Muhammad was of Br&hmanical descent {At, Bet. vol. ix.
p. 160.) Wilson considers that the story was manu&ctured especially for Wilford, but
it is traditionally current among the ignorant in some parts of Upper India. {Note to
MilPt India, vol. ii. p. 1 76.) The reputed Brbhmanical origin of Akbar ia more reason-
Digitized by VjOOQIC
570 APPENDIX.
inquired after the Temnant of the stock of Magians ; bat all their
customs, both religioas and social, are of the Hiadd stamp, and
their only peculiarity consists in being the sole caste employed in
the cultivation of mendhi (Lawsonia inermis).^
Note D.
On the hnotokdge of Sanskrit by Muhammadana.
It is a common error to suppose that Faizi (t. p. 479) was the
first' Muhammadan who mastered the difficulties of the Sanskrit, —
that language, "of wonderful structure, more perfect than Greek,
more copious than Latin, and more exquisitely refined than either."
Akbar's freedom from religious bigotry, his ardent desire for the
cultivation of knowledge, and his encouragement of every kind of
able, inasmuch as it can be attributed to gratitude, and is not opposed to the doctrine
of transmigration ; but why Muhammad should also be chosen, whose Totaries have
proved the most unrelenting persecutors of Hindlis, can only be ascribed to the
marvellous assimilating powers of their mental digestion, fostered by the grossest
credulity and ignorance of past events, which can, as Milton says, "corporeal to
incorporeal turn," and to that indiscriminate craving after adaptation, which induces
them even now to present their offerings at the shrines of Muhammadans, whose
only title to saint is derived from the fact of their haying despatched hundreds of
infidel and accursed Htnd&s to the nethermost pit of Hell.
1 See also Shea and Troyer, Dabistan, vol. i. pp. c. cxxv.; Asiatie £etearcMs9,
vol. ix. pp. 74, 81, 212, vol. xi. p. 76, vol. xvi. p. 16; Dr. Bird, Joum, jit. Soe,
Bombay, no. ix. p. 186; Rammohun Roy, Tranalation of the Veds, pp. 29, 73, 109-
118; Malcolm, History of PersiOy vol. i. pp. 488-494; 'V^ilson, Vithnu Ikrana,
pp. xl. 84, 397 ; North British Review, no. ii. p. 376 ; Klaproth, Memoires Relatifs a
VAsie^ torn. ii. p. 81; Ouseley, Travels in Persia, vol. L pp. 102-146; Ritter,
JErdkunde von Asien, yol. Iv. pt 1, pp. 489, 574, 614-619; Rhode, Beligiose Bilduny
der Hindus, vol i. p. 42, vol. ii. p. 290; Moor's Hindu Pantheon, pp. 296-302;
Colebrooke, Miscellaneous Essays, vol. i. pp. 30, 149, 153, 188, 217 ; F. Creoxer,
Symbolik und Mythologie, vol. i. pp. 518-624 ; Reinaud*s Memoire sur rindSy pasHm ;
Reinaud's Fragments Arabes et Persons, p. 46 ; Elphinstone's History of India,
vol. i. pp. 78, 90, 461-2, 471, 489; Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal,
1849, pp. 105-7, 1852, p. 447 ; Journ. Boy. Asiatic Society, vol. xii. pp. 26, 27 ;
Calcutta Beview, vol. xxi. p. 160, vol. xxv. p. 45 ; Grote's Oreeee, vol. iv. p. 299,
vol. V. p. 397; J. H. Hottingeri Thesaurus Philoloyieus seu Clavis Scripturee, 1649,
p. 56 ; Buxtorf, Lex,, p. 704 ; Mod, Trav, in India, vol. i. p. 146, vol. iv. pp. 201
to 206; Tod, vol. i. pp. 102, 112, 217, 232; Fergusson's Anc» Arch, Hind., p. 6;
R. S. Poole's Hora Egyptiacte, p. 206 ; Cory's Ancient Fragments, p. 272 ; Maisey's
Report on Sanehi Topes, Note B ; Cunningham's BhUsa Topes.
* Elphinstone's History of India, vol. ii p. 31 7 ; Biographical Dictionary, L. U. K.,
vol i. p. 683; Dow's Hindoostan, vol. i, p. 6; Biiggs, vol. iv. p. 461. Gladwin
mentions translations made before the time of Akbar in the Ain-i AMmri, voL L
p. 108, vol. ii. p. 168.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
KNOWLEDGE OF SANSKRIT BY MUHAMMADAN8. 571
learning, and especially his regard for his Hindu suhjects, imparted
a stimulns to the cultivation of Indian literature, such as had never
prevailed under any of his predecessors. Hence, besides Faizi, we
have amongst the Sanskrit translators of his reign 'Abdu-1 Eadir,
Nakib Ehan, Mulla Shah Muhammad, MuUa Shabri, Sultan Haji,
H£ji Ibrahim, and others. In some instances it may admit of doubt,
whether the translations may not have been made from versions
previously done into Hindi, oral or written. The word Hindi is
ambiguous when used by a Muhammadan of that period. Nizlmu-d
din Ahmad, for instance, says that 'Abdu-1 Kadir translated several
works from the Hindi, Now, we know that he translated, amongst
other works, the Bdmdyana and the Singhdsan Battisi.^ It is much
more probable that these were in the original Sanskrit, than in
Hindi. 'Abdu-1 Eadir and Firishta tell us that the Mahd-bhdrata
was translated into Persian from the Hindi, the former' ascribing
the work chiefly to Nakib Khan, the latter to Faizi.' Here again
there is every probability of the Sanskrit being meant. In another
instance, 'Abdu-1 Eadir tells us that he was called upon to translate
the Atharva Veda from the Hindi, which he excused himself from
doing, on account of the exceeding difficulty of the style and ab-
struseness of meaning, upon which the task devolved upon Haji
Ibrahim Sirhindi, who accomplished it satisfactorily. Here it is
evident that nothing but Sanskrit could have been meant* But
though the knowledge of Sanskrit appears to have been more
generally diffused at this time, it was by no means the first occasion
that Muhammadans had become acquainted with that language.
Even if we allowed that they obtained the abridgment of the
Fancha Tantra, under the name of Fables of Bidpai, or HitopadeSay
1 [See tuprdf pp. 513 and 539.]
' His account, which will be seen at p. 537, is very oonfosed, and it is not easy to
gather from it what share each of the coadjutors had in the translation. The same
names are given in the Ain-i Akbari; Sprenger's Bibl., pp. 59, 63.
s The author of the Siyaru-l Muta-akhkhirin (vol. i.) ascribes it to 'Abdu-1 E&dir
and Shaikh Muhammad Sult&n Th&nesari. The name of the translator is not men-
tioned in Abu-1 FazUs preface, but the work is said to have been done by ^verul
men of both religions.
* In the 'Ashlka and Nuh-aipahr of Amir Khusril there are two important passages,
showiog that in the former Hindi means Sanskrit ; and Amir Khusrii in the same
work says that he himself had a knowledge of the language.
Digitized by VjOOQIC
572 APPENDIX.
through the medium of the Pehlevi,^ there are other fiusts which
make it equally oertain that the Muhammadans had attained a
oorreot knowledge of Hie Sanskrit not long after the establishment
of their religion; even admitting, aa waa probably the case, that
most of the Arabio translationB were made by Indian foreigners
resident at Baghdad,
In the KhaUfaU of Al-Mam^ the Augustan age of Arabian
literature, the treatise' of Muhammad bin Musaon Algebra^ which
was translated by Dr. Bosen in 1831, and the medical treatises of
Mikah and Ibn Dahan, who are represented to be In£ans,* show
that Sanskrit must have been well known at that time ; and e^en
before that, the compilafcions of CharaJca and Susruta^ had been
translated, and had diffused a general knowledge of Indian medicine
amongst the Arabs. From the -very first, we find them paying
particular attention to this branch of science, and encouraging the
profession of it so mucji, that two Indians, Manka and Salih by
name, — ^the former of whom translated a treatise on poison into
Persian, — ^held appointments as body-physiciane at the Court of
Har^nu-r Bashid.' The Arabians possessed during the early periods
of the Khalifate several other Indian works which had been trans-
lated into Arabic, some on astronomy,* some on music,^ some on
judicial astrology,^ some on interpretation of dreams,* some on the
religion and theogony of the Hindus,** some on their sacred scrip-
^ See Mteoire prefixed to S. de Sacy's editioa of Calilah wa Dimnahf Paris, 1816.
See also Biographie UniverwUe, torn. xxi. p. 471.
* Colebrooke, MiaetUaneout B»9ay$, vol. ii. pp. 444-^00.
s BiographietU Dietumary, L. XT. K., vol. ii. p. 242.
^ Diez, Jnaleeta MedieOy pp. 126-140.
^ Journal of Education^ vol. viii. p. 176 ; Royle, Antiquity of Hindk Medicine^
p. 64 ; Oriental Mag,^ March, 1823 ; D'Herbelot, arts. Ketab al Sanumm and Mangheh;
Abtl-l Faragii, Hist. Dynast,, p^ 238 ; Dietz, p. 124 ; Price, vol. ii. p. 88 ; JBiop. Die,^
L. U. E., vol. ii. p. 300 ; Jottrn, Soy, As, 8oe,, vol. vi. p. 107 ; Reinand^a AhonU
fsday vol. i. p. 42; Rampoldi, vol. iv. pp. 451, 478; Mod, Unio, Hist,^ vol. ii. p. 155 ;
Cosmos (Sabine), vol ii. notes 328, 340-1, 350-5-6 ; WtLstenfeld, Arab Aitrtss, p. 19 ;
Kitter, £rdkunde, vol. iv. part 1, pp. 529, 626.
> Casiri, Bibliotheea BseurialensiSf vol. L p. 246.
"^ Cariri, ibid., p. 427.
" Hottingeri, Frompluarium, p. 254 ; Bdnaad's Aboulfeda, voL L pp. 42, 46, 49.
' Casiri, Bibliotheoa Bseurialeniis, vol. i. p. 401.
10 Gieldemeister, de rebus Indieis Seriptt, Arabb,, pp. 104-119 ; De Qnignei, M^m.
de VAeadem. des Inscr^t., torn. zxvi. p. 791 et seq.
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KNOWLEDGE OF SANSKRIT BY MUHAMMADANS. 573
tnres,^ some on tiie oaloolation of nativitieBy' aome on agrioulture,'
8ome on poisons/ some on physiognomy,^ and some on palmistiry,*
besides others, whioh need not be here enumerated.
If we turn our eyes towards India, we find that soaroely had these
ruthless conquerors gained a footing in the land, than Biruni
exerted himself with the utmost diligence to study the language,
literature, and soienoe of India, and attained, as we have already
seen, such proficiency in it, as to be able to translate into, as well as
from, the Sanskrit Muhammad bin Israil-al Tanukhi also travelled
early into India, to learn the system of astronomy which was taught
by the sages of that country.^ There seems, however, no good
authority for Abii-l Fazl's statement in the Ain-i Alcbcai,^ that Abu
Ma'shar (Albumazar) visited Benares at an earlier period ; — and the
visit of Ibn*al Baithar to India, four oenturies afterwards, rests
solely on the authority of Leo Africanus.*
Again, when Firoz Shah, after the capture of Nagarkot, in the
middle of the fourteenth century, obtained possession of a valuable
Sanskrit Library, he ordered a work on philosophy, divination, and
omens to be translated, under the name of DaWl-i Firaz-shdhiy by
Maulana 'Izzu-d din Khalid Elhanf, — aud to have enabled the trans-
lator to do this, he must have acquired no slight knowledge of the
original, before his selection for the duty.
In the Nawwab Jalalu-d daula's Library at Lucknow, there is a
work on astrology, also translated from the Sanskrit into Persian in
Firoz Shah's reign. A knowledge of Sanskrit must have prevailed
pretty generally about this time, for there is in the Boyal Library
at Lucknow a work on the veterinary art, which was translated
^ D' Herbelot, Arts. Jnb^kend, Ambahoumatah, Behtrgir. See also K$tab Mht^,
KHab Roi ai Sendif and seferal other articles under £Jetab, Rampoldi, • toL It.
p. 328.
* Hfiji KhAlfa, ToL L p. 282; Diiez, AnakeU Mtdiea^ p. 118 ; D'Herbelot, art
Oaneah.
* GUdemeisteTi iz.
« Dietz, p. 118 ; D'Herbelot, Xetab Roi al Smdu
« D'Herbelot, Biblioth. Or,, torn. It. p. 725 ; Dies, AmOeeta Medioa, p. 117.
« H&ji Khalfa, Tol.i p. 263.
7 Casiri, Bibl Emtrial^ vol. i. p. 489.
* Akn-i Akbari, vol. ii. p. 288 ; Oildemeister, 79.
0 Hottingeri, Bibl, quadrup. ap. Gildemeister, Seriptt. Arabb,j p. 80 ; JIfod, Univer,
ffUt.f ToL IL p. 274 ; Beinand's Aboulfeda, yoI. L p. 55 ; Mdmoire^ pp. 6, 289, 3 16, 336.
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574 APPENDIX.
from the Sanskrit by order of Ghiyasu-d dm Hdahammad Shah
KhilJL This rare book, caUed Kurrutu-l Mulk, was translated as
early as a.h. 783 (a.d. 1381), from an original, styled ^SdZofar, which
is the name of an Indian, who is said to have been a Brahman, and
the tutor of Susmta. The Preface says that the translation was
made " from the barbarous Hindi into the refined Persian, in order
that there may be no more need of a reference to infidels." It is a
small work, comprising only 41 pages 8vo. of 13 lines, and the
style is very concise. It is divided into eleven chapters and thirty
sections. The precise age of this work is doubtful, because, althangh
it is plainly stated to have been translated in a.h. 788, yet the
reigning prince is called Sultan Ghiydsu-d din Muhammad Shah,
son of Mahmud Shah, and there is no king so named whose reign
exactly corresponds with that date. The nearest is 6hiyasu-d din
Azim Shdh bin Sikandar Shah, who reigned in Bengal from a.h.
769 to 775.* If Sultdn Ghiydsu-d din Tughlik be i^eant, it should
date sixty years earlier, and if the King of Malwa who bore that
name be meant, it should be dated 100 years later ; any way, it very
much precedes the reign of Akbar.^ The translator makes no
mention in it of the work on the same subject, which had been
previously translated from the Sanskrit into Arabic at Baghdad,
under the name of Kitdhu-l Battarat,
From all these instances it is evident that Faizi did not occupy
the entirely new field of literature for which he usually obtains
credit' The same error seems to have prevaded the history of
European scholarship in Sanskrit We read as early as a.d. 1677,
^ There is sometbing respecting this reign in the History of Mecca which relates
■to India, and shows great communication between Bengal and Arabia.
2 It 18 curious, that without any allusion to this work, another on the reterinazy
art, styled Sdlotarij and said to comprise in the Sanskrit original 16,000 sloktUf was
translated in the reign of Sh&h Jah&n, " when there were many learned men who
knew Sanskrit," by Saiyid 'Abdu-lla Eh&n Bah&dur Firoz Jang, who had found it
amongst some other Sanskrit books, which during his expedition against Mew&r, in
the reign of Jabkngir, had been plundered from Amar Singh, R6.n6. of Chitor, and
<* one of the chief zaminddrs of the hill-country.*' It is diTided into tweWe chapten,
and is more than double the size of the other.
' Faizf^s Lildvati has many omissions, and the translation in some passages departs
BO far from the original '< as induces the suspicion that Faizi contented himself with
writing down the Yerbal explanation afforded by his assistants." — Dr. Taylor^s
Lildvatly p. 2.
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KNOWLEDGE OF SANSKRIT BY MUHAMMADANS. 575
of Mr. Marshall's being a proficient in the langaage, and without
mentioning the dabions names of Anqaetil du Perron ^ and Father
Paolino,^ others oonld be named, who preceded in this arduous path
the celebrated scholars of the present period. Thus, Holwell says
that he read and understood Sanskrit, and P. Pons, the Jesuit (1740),
knew the language. In such an inquiry as this also must not be
omitted the still more important evidence afforded by the Mujmalu't
TawdHkh, from which Extracts have been given in Vol. I. p. 100*
^ See Oetehiehie der Fhihsophie^ vol. i. p. 412 ; Edinb, Sev.f vol. i. p. 75 ; Heeren's
Eutorieal Jiesearchea, toL ii. p. 129, and Calcutta Review^ Tol. xxir. p. 471.
' BoUen speaks of his OrOmmatiea Samseredamieaf Rom. 1790, as " foil of the
groesest blunders ; " Sir William Jones designates him as *< homo trium litterariMn,"
and Leyden is even less complimeDtary in his strictures : *' The publication of his
Vyaearana, Bom. 1804, has giTen a death-blow to his Taunted pretensions to profound
Oriental learning, and shown, as was preyiously suspected, that he was incapable of
accurately distinguishing Sanskrit from the yemacular languages of India. Equally
superficial, inaccurate, and virulent in his invective, a critic of his own stamp would
be tempted to retort on him his own quotation from Ennius : —
Simia quam similis turpissima bestia vobis.'*
See Dob alte Indimi vol. ii. p. 471 ; As, Jtea,, vol. x. p. 278 ; Joum, Atiatigue, torn. ii.
p. 216 ; Heeren, Mister, Rea., vol. ii. p. 108 ; M. Abel-R^musat, Now, Mil, Asiat.^
tom. ii. pp. 305-315; Quart. Or, Mag.,, vol. iv. p. 158.
[Addition to the note on the Autobiography of Timtir in Vol. IV. p. 559.
Since the publication of Vol. IV., I have had access to a copy of the first volume
of the Afatla^u-a Sa'dain belonging to Professor Cowell ; but I have not discovered
in it any reference to the works from which the author drew his life of Timtfr.
Timor's " Testament ** is given in the Zafar-ndma, so the statement in p. 562
of VoL IV. requires correction. — J. D.]
END OF VOL. V.
BTEPUBN AUSTIN AND SONS, PAINTKBS, BSftTPOBD.
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